<Tr> <Th> Pages </Th> <Td> 753 (1st edition) </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Th> OCLC </Th> <Td> 300033023 </Td> </Tr> <P> The Fountainhead is a 1943 novel by Russian - American author Ayn Rand, her first major literary success . The novel's protagonist, Howard Roark, is an individualistic young architect who designs modernist buildings and refuses to compromise with an architectural establishment unwilling to accept innovation . Roark embodies what Rand believed to be the ideal man, and his struggle reflects Rand's belief that individualism is superior to collectivism . </P> <P> Roark is opposed by what he calls "second - handers", who value conformity over independence and integrity . These include Roark's former classmate, Peter Keating, who succeeds by following popular styles, but turns to Roark for help with design problems . Ellsworth Toohey, a socialist architecture critic who uses his influence to promote his political and social agenda, tries to destroy Roark's career . Tabloid newspaper publisher Gail Wynand seeks to shape popular opinion; he befriends Roark, then betrays him when public opinion turns in a direction he cannot control . The novel's most controversial character is Roark's lover, Dominique Francon . She believes that non-conformity has no chance of winning, so she alternates between helping Roark and working to undermine him . Feminist critics have condemned Roark and Dominique's first sexual encounter, accusing Rand of endorsing rape . </P>

Who authored the famous novel the fountain head