In comparing Rubashov and Ivanov one sees that they are very similar people, both are very logical and intelligent, with similar thought processes. They were also both part of the original revolution, members of the intelligentsia and raised in similar upper class homes. Initially both were devoted to their party's beliefs. They were so similar that they could anticipate each other's actions. While holding different views they also recognize their mutual similarity. This can be illustrated with

Rubashov has for most of his life believed, along with most other people, that the cornerstone of the governing party's beliefs is correct. This belief is that the community is of paramount importance. While individual rights are nice to have, one must be able to sacrifice them immediately in order to benefit the community. During the book we find that Rubashov has begun to doubt these beliefs. He feels guilty about all the people he has consigned to death for the good of the party. At one point he counsels Ivanov to submit to save his own life. He has been slowly changing his beliefs to become diametrically opposed to that of the one supported by the party. Rubashov comes to believe that the individual is sacrosanct and should not be sacrificed for even the loftiest of goals.

Some common words found in the essay are:
Ivanov Rubashov, Rubashov Ivanov, Darkness Noon, , rubashov ivanov, ivanov estimable character, system superior, estimable character rubashov, character rubashov, individual rights, party's beliefs, estimable character, stuck philosophy, ivanov estimable, individual sacrosanct,
Approximate Word count = 529
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)