The Fountainhead: Summary

The Fountainhead is a novel by Ayn Rand that explores the power of individualism, creativity and self-determination. The main protagonist, Howard Roark, is an architect who refuses to compromise his artistic vision in order to gain public approval or financial success. He is a strong advocate for individualism, believing in the value of personal opinions and choices over conformity. He also believes that it’s better to act according to one's own moral code instead of relying on external forces for guidance. Additionally, the novel discusses the power of money and ambition, as well as the role these traits play in society. Ultimately, The Fountainhead serves as a commentary on the importance of free will and creative expression in a world where conformity is increasingly valued over originality.

1. What do you think is the main theme of The Fountainhead?
2. How does Ayn Rand portray the relationship between architecture and human nature?
3. How does Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism play out in the novel?
4. What is your opinion on the characters' motivations and choices throughout the novel?
5. How is individualism represented in The Fountainhead?
6. Does Howard Roark embody the idea of a heroic figure?
7. Do you agree or disagree with Peter Keating's decision to compromise his beliefs for success?
8. Was Dominique Francon's transformation from adversary to ally believable to you?
9. How does The Fountainhead challenge traditional notions of power and success?
10. What impact has The Fountainhead had on your own life and thinking?

• The Fountainhead is a powerful story about the importance of individualism and the consequences of conforming to society's expectations.
• Ayn Rand's writing style captures the essence of her themes in a captivating way.
• Reading The Fountainhead is an uplifting experience that encourages readers to think critically and stand up for their beliefs.
• The novel is an exploration of the power of creativity and how it can be used to effect positive change in the world.
• The Fountainhead provides an interesting critique of modern architecture, delving into its effects on human emotions and behavior.
• The characters in The Fountainhead are dynamic and complex, making them easy to relate to and sympathize with.
• Ayn Rand's writing skillfully blends philosophy, psychology, and literature to create a thought-provoking narrative that engages readers from start to finish.
• The Fountainhead is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time as one of the greatest works of literature ever written.
• Through her characters, Ayn Rand examines the power dynamics between individuals and society as a whole.
• The Fountainhead is a unique work that challenges traditional notions about morality, justice, and freedom.

1. "I swear by my life and my love of it that I will never live for the sake of another man, nor ask another man to live for mine."
2. "The man who does not value himself, cannot value anything or anyone."
3. "The question isn't who is going to let me; it's who is going to stop me."
4. "A creative man is motivated by the desire to achieve, not by the desire to beat others."
5. "Happiness is that state of consciousness which proceeds from the achievement of one's values."

Film The Fountainhead (1949), directed by King Vidor. TV The Fountainhead (1981), a 4-part miniseries starring Peter Strauss and Victoria Principal. Radio The Fountainhead (1987) adaptation for National Public Radio. Podcast The Fountainhead Unabridged (2016), a podcast adaptation of the novel. Theatrical The Fountainhead (2013) stage adaptation by Scott Wentworth, produced at the Stratford Festival in Ontario, Canada.

• Atlas Shrugged
• Anthem
• We the Living
• The Virtue of Selfishness
• Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal
• The Romantic Manifesto
• The New Left: The Anti-Industrial Revolution
• Philosophy: Who Needs It
• Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology
• For the New Intellectual