The Handmaid's Tale Part 2

For my second post on this book, I will focus on the characters. It is very ironic how the novel is narrated by a person who is the symbol of the new polygamist order of Handmaids whose mother was in the forefront of feminist activism. Her mom stood for everything that the new Gilead order abhored and shunned from. I think this contrast was intentionally done to show how despite a person's upbringing or history they all adapted to the new lifestyle under fear. Offred is constantly reminded of her husband Luke and her daughter and how much better her life used to be. This is ironic in the fact the Gilead society changed everything to the new system because they believed society used to be corrupt, Godless, and dangerous for women due to the high rate of crimes against females. However, their from of liberation for women is no more than slavery.

This book clearly shows the danger of a religious sect coming to power. Our forefathers came to America to create a country of tolerance to prevent the persecutions of difference in religions that had ravaged Europe for so long. Another reason for Offred's continual resistance to the new order was the fact she was surrounded by people who broke the rules. Here best friend Moira was a rebel who represented everything that used to be: free spirited women, different clothes, and self-empowerment. Even a high ranking officer, the Commander, frequently went against protocol and even allowed her to play Scrabble with him. Nick, the Guardian, kissed her and eventually began a passionate relationship with her. All of these characters continually reminded her of an existence outside of Gilead, an existence where she had choices.