The Handmaid’s Tale
(Margaret Atwood)

Gender relations

In Gilead, men and women revert back to traditional gender roles, with the man as caretaker and provider, and the woman as mother and guardian of the home. Women are not allowed to read, hold jobs, or own property. Additionally, social ceremonies and events are segregated between men and women. Offred mentions that when she first lost her job and access to money, she could feel an immediate power shift between her and her husband Luke.  

Reproduction

Much of Gileadean society focuses on the importance of reproduction. Abortion and birth control methods of the previous civilization have been banned, as has any medicine during labor. Handmaids are given to elite families without children to serve as surrogate mothers. The emphasis here is on reproduction as the ultimate goal of sexual relations, rather than pleasure. The desire for a child drives many families to go to extreme lengths.  

Feminism

The novel incorporates many feminist theories and frequently refers to feminist characters: Offred’s mother and best friend Moira are both staunch feminists. Even the society of Gilead, which in many ways can be seen as reactionary to the feminist movement, is very female-focused in some regards. Aunt Lydia claims they are building a united female society where women can live free from fear of rape or harm. In such a way, The Handmaid’s Tale questions the premises of feminism by exploring its alternative trajectory. 

Words & Language

Language is used as a tool of power in Gilead. Only men are allowed to read and obtain knowledge, whereas women are forbidden from such devices. Handmaids are also rarely allowed to talk to or interact with others. However, Offred often discusses the limitations of language as well. She feels her explanations are inadequate to describe her experiences and memories, and that much is lost through her reconstructions. 

Religion

Religious overtones are present throughout Gilead. Prayer is crucial to the society, and the Handmaid practice is based on the biblical account of Rachel and Leah. There are also references to Baptist Guerillas and Quaker Heretics, indicating that the ongoing wars have religious grounding as well. Belief and faith are used as justification for many of the more brutal practices in the society. 

Dystopia

In many ways, Gilead may be read as a dystopian society. The country was founded on a premise of utopia, but in actuality is repressive and controlling. The story demonstrates what happens when utopian ideals are taken to the extreme. In an effort to make the world a better place, the Commanders have inadvertently made it worse. 

The Physical Body

Offred frequently contemplates the physical needs of the body. She has come to be defined only by her reproductive ability, but in the past her body meant much more freedom. Offred recognizes her own desire for sexual contact and intimacy, and that her body craves certain interactions that are forbidden in society.

Political Dissidence

Power dynamics and political control are a constant theme in The Handmaid’s Tale. Those in power try to control the news and dissenting opinions, but resistance networks still manage to form. In some ways, The Handmaid’s Tale is about rebellion and resistance. No matter the risk, there are always people who are willing to go against the grain and fight for political freedom.

Conformity

Gilead runs on the basis of Conformity, especially for the women. Each person has a specific function, and each group such as Handmaids, Econowives, Wives, and Marthas have a required uniform. The individual is not valued in this society; it is only the group that matters. Conformity is also linked with obedience: the more alike the citizens are, the easier they are to contain.

Human Nature

Although Gileadean society tries to restrict how people behave, ultimately they fall back into their old habits. Offred cannot help but to be sexually attracted to Nick, even though she still loves Luke. Even the Commander, who was one of the men responsible for the institution of Gilead’s policies, still meets with Offred in secret and offers her the opportunity to engage in forbidden acts such as reading. People are drawn to transgression, and ultimately human nature wins out over constructed order.