Class Projects

There are many things that students can do, in addition to writing critical essays, that will enhance their understanding of The Fountainhead.
 

1.)		Discuss in class what the world would be like if Roark's ideas were the dominant philosophy. If Toohey's ideas were preeminent. If Keating's were. If Dominique's were.
2.)		Dramatize a scene from the novel, with students playing the parts of the relevant characters. Present the scene in accordance with your best understanding of the novel's meaning.
3.)		Create a web site that explains to other people what you find illuminating and exciting about the book. Explain what advantages they will derive from reading it and understanding the novel's theme.
4.)		Debate in class the contrasting philosophical theories that the story dramatizes, with some students defending the individualism of Roark and others the collectivism of Toohey.
5.)		Write a letter to Ayn Rand describing your reaction to The Fountainhead. Did you find it uplifting, exciting, educational? Many people have found that reading this book gave them the courage to pursue their own dreams. Describe to the author your own response to it.
6.)		Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper, arguing that the individualistic philosophy of Howard Roark is the solution to specific contemporary problems, e.g., racism, drugs, poverty, crime, war.