by Edwin A. Locke

This lecture explores the nature of romantic love as depicted in Ayn Rand's four novels, with special emphasis on The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged.

Examining numerous selections from her novels, Dr. Locke addresses the following questions: In the realm of romance, what is egoistic love—and how does it differ from non-egoistic love? What factors in the characters of the lovers make egoistic love possible? What makes it endure? What are the elements of conflict in these relationships? How do the love relationships between Ayn Rand's heroes differ from the love relationships between her non-heroes?

Lastly, Dr. Locke discusses the implications these fictional love relationships have for real life.

(Audio CD; 2-CD set; 87 min.)