Atlas Shrugged Blog Chapter's 1 and 2 Hernan Prieto

Ayn Rand’s “Atlas Shrugged” takes place in a time of mid- economic crisis for the United States. Rand’s main focus that intertwines with all the characters that have been introduced so far is the ability to keep and maintain some sort of monetary status.  Rand focuses throughout the first two chapters on specific characters, such as Dagny, James, and Hank. All of who have something to do with the train industry and have nothing but capitalistic intentions. 

Along with trying to stay at an economical advantage, the characters attitudes begin to reveal themselves as the novel progresses. Dagny is easily depicted as a hard worker with no other worries but her job. With her perseverance, strong attitude and willingness to keep her company afloat the reader can speculate that it is because of her that Taggart Transcontinental is still a functional and revenue making company considering the hard economic times. Her attitude is at opposing poles when it comes to her brother James. James much like todays spoiled rich and famous is submissive to Dagny’s strong iron fist like attitude. When first introduced, James seems somewhat dominating towards Eddie, Dagny’s assistant, but then it is later revealed that he much like a figurehead for the company doesn’t do much. The decisions he has taken for the company are later argued between James and Dagny to have proved to be more of an unfavorable weight for the company rather than being profitable. Phrases such as “I never said that” perfectly illustrate his weakness in decision-making.

Taggart Transcontinental’s lassos with Rearden Metal are explained to have an abundant history together, but it is not that what catches the reader’s eye; it’s the extensive similarities that Dagny Taggart and Hank Rearden have in common. Hanks attitude, much like Dagny’s, is strong and willing and perfectly knows what he wants. Much like James is to Dagny, Hanks family is to him. His critical mother, wife and siblings show nothing but resentment towards him and his industry.