Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand evokes polarized opinions. Praised for its ambitious narrative and exploration of Objectivism, admirers find it intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking. Critics, however, contend that its characters are one-dimensional and the prose overly didactic. Overall, it's a compelling but divisive read.

Readers who enjoy Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand typically appreciate philosophical fiction exploring individualism, capitalism, and objectivism. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 and Aldous Huxley's Brave New World may also appreciate its exploration of dystopian themes and socio-economic critiques.

Set in a dystopian US gripped by a collectivist government, Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand follows protagonist Dagny Taggart as she defends her family's railway against bureaucratic interference and a national strike led by John Galt, promoting radical individualism and unregulated capitalism. The novel explores themes like morality from an objectivist perspective and the idolization of the lone genius archetype.

United States / Near-future twentieth century

Mysterious / Challenging / Inspirational / Emotional

- Atlas Shrugged was published in 1957, and despite being critically panned initially, it has since become a significantly influential work, especially among proponents of libertarian and conservative ideologies.
- Ayn Rand's work on Atlas Shrugged was highly personal, with her even composing music to accompany the book's pivotal scene for her own pleasure.
- A film adaptation of Atlas Shrugged was released as a trilogy from 2011 to 2014, with each installment having a different director and cast.

**Dagny Taggart**  
A strong-willed and dynamic protagonist who leads with authority and exemplifies objectivist values in her roles within business and industry. She is portrayed as both fiercely independent in her professional life and embracing of her femininity in personal matters.

**Henry “Hank” Rearden**  
An innovative industrialist known for creating a revolutionary metal alloy who experiences significant personal and philosophical growth throughout the story. He navigates challenges in his personal relationships while striving to align with objectivist beliefs.

**The Men of Galt’s Gulch**  
A group of exceptional individuals adhering to objectivist principles who contribute significantly to their fields, representing the novel’s idealized vision of productivity and morality. The group includes industrious and principled characters like Wyatt, Francisco, Mulligan, and Hadley.

**The Looters**  
The principal antagonists who oppose objectivist ideals through their actions and philosophies, often characterized by pettiness and ignorance. Among them are notable figures like Jim Taggart, Wesley Mouch, Dr. Ferris, and Lilian Rearden.

Ayn Rand

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Atlas Shrugged reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Atlas Shrugged | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Rand’s fictional exploration of individualism and unregulated capitalism remains divisive. Learn why with this summary of Atlas Shrugged.

Atlas Shrugged Summary and Study Guide

Background

Get ready to explore Atlas Shrugged and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Atlas Shrugged Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Non-Contradiction”

Part 1, Chapters 1-5

Atlas Shrugged Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 6-10

Atlas Shrugged Part 1, Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Either – Or”

Part 2, Chapters 1-5

Atlas Shrugged Part 2, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 6-10

Atlas Shrugged Part 2, Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “A Is A”

Part 3, Chapters 1-5

Atlas Shrugged Part 3, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 6-10

Atlas Shrugged Part 3, Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Atlas Shrugged Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Atlas Shrugged Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Atlas Shrugged Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Atlas Shrugged Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Atlas Shrugged Essay Topics

Atlas Shrugged

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Atlas Shrugged?

Reading Age

Book Details