Margaret Atwood’s 1985 novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, is a chilling story of what a possible future America could be like if religious fundamentalists took over the government.
The men in charge of what was formerly the United States – now called “The Republic of Gilead”- have stripped away all women’s rights.
They are no longer allowed to read, write, smoke, drink, talk with others except when necessary, or even use their own names. They now identify themselves by the word “of” plus the first name of the Commander they are assigned to at the time.
This story is told by Offred, who once had a husband and daughter, but has no idea what has happened to either of them. She’s now forced to be the handmaid of a high-ranking officer.
Her Commander’s wife, Serena Joy, had been a televangelist in the previous society. She’d preached the virtues of women staying in the home, which, of course, she did not do at the time. Now she is forced to do just that, in a world she helped to create.
Although Serena Joy is a Wife, the highest social level allowed women, and has some authority over the other classes of women, she has no real freedom.
All females in the Republic of Gilead are divided into categories, and wear different colors of clothing, according to the group to which they belong.
Wives wear blue, Daughters wear white until they are married. (These are arranged marriages, of course.)
Handmaids wear red. These are women of child-bearing age who are (hopefully) fertile and able to bear children for the Commander and his wife.
If she is successful in delivering a healthy baby, she must immediately give it up to the Wife. The handmaid will then be passed on to another household, for the same purpose.
Offred lives in the home with the Commander and Serena Joy. She is allowed only in certain parts of the house, and spends much of her time in her room, which has been cleared of anything that could possibly be used for a suicide attempt. She eventually learns that the handmaid before her had hanged herself in that room.
Sex with handmaids is for reproduction only, and on the night of “the Ceremony”, when the Commander attempts to impregnate her, the Wife is present.
I won’t even attempt to describe this disturbing scene, which seems to be distasteful to all three of them, most certainly to the women.
A school superintendent in Judson, Texas, banned The Handmaid’s Tale from an advanced placement English study program after a parent complained that it was “sexually explicit and offensive to Christians“. In 2006, a committee of teachers, students, and parents appealed the decision to the school board, which overruled the superintendent.
In 2001 a group of Texas parents also challenged the book, declaring it “anti-Christian and pornographic”.
Also in 2001, in Pennsylvania, it was downgraded from “required” to “optional” for 11th grade summer reading, for “inappropriate subject matter“.
The Handmaid’s Tale is a riveting story. It’s also horrifying. Especially if the reader is aware that right now ( in 2013) there are religious extremists relentlessly fighting their way into places of power in order to create a society that could be much too close to the one described in this story.
This book serves as a wake-up call to all of us to pay attention to what is going on in our country. Keep current on politics. Know your candidates as well as you possibly can. Vote!
We don’t want to ever find ourselves living in a world where the freedom we now have is only a memory.
Why Is The Handmaid’s Tale Banned?
| Reason for Ban | Description |
|---|---|
| Depiction of government control and oppression | The novel explores the ways in which government control is used to oppress women, particularly in terms of their reproductive rights. This has led to censorship in certain countries as it is seen as a criticism of their political systems. |
| Sexual content and themes of religion and misogyny | The book’s graphic descriptions of rape and sexual violence, as well as its portrayal of religion as a tool of oppression and its criticism of misogyny, have been cited as reasons for censorship. |
| Similarities to other banned books | The Handmaid’s Tale shares similarities in content and themes with other banned books such as 1984 and Brave New World, which have also been banned for their criticism of political systems and depiction of graphic violence and sexuality. |
Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian novel that depicts a society in which women are stripped of their rights and forced into a patriarchal system of oppression. The book has been hailed as a classic of feminist literature, but it has also been banned in certain countries and schools. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why The Handmaid’s Tale has been banned, and the themes and messages that have sparked debate and censorship.
Themes of Government Control and Oppression Spark Censorship
The Handmaid’s Tale takes place in the Republic of Gilead, a society in which the government has complete control over its citizens. The novel explores the ways in which this government control is used to oppress women, particularly in terms of their reproductive rights. The book’s depiction of government control and oppression has led to censorship in certain countries, as it is seen as a criticism of those societies’ political systems.
Sexual Content and Themes of Religion and Misogyny
In addition to its depiction of government control, The Handmaid’s Tale also explores themes of sexual content, religion, and misogyny. The novel’s graphic descriptions of rape and sexual violence have led to it being banned in some schools and countries, as they are deemed inappropriate for certain audiences. Additionally, the novel’s portrayal of religion as a tool of oppression and its criticism of misogyny have also been cited as reasons for censorship.
The Handmaid’s Tale Summary: A Dystopian Exploration of Women’s Oppression and Government Control
The Handmaid’s Tale, written by Margaret Atwood, is a dystopian novel set in the Republic of Gilead, a society in which the government has complete control over its citizens. The novel follows the story of Offred, a handmaid whose sole purpose is to bear children for the ruling class. The novel explores the ways in which this government control is used to oppress women, particularly in terms of their reproductive rights. Through Offred’s story, the novel also delves into themes of sexual content, religion, and misogyny. The novel’s portrayal of a society where women have no agency and are used solely for reproduction, is an exploration of the dangers of extremism and the importance of individual freedom. The book’s themes and the way it is written makes it a classic of feminist literature, yet it is banned in some countries and schools due to its controversial content.
What is the moral of The Handmaid’s Tale?
The moral of the story is that we must always be vigilant and fight against any attempt to take away our rights and freedoms. The novel shows us how easily a society can slip into a dystopia, and how difficult it is to regain control once it’s lost. The characters in the novel are constantly struggling against the oppressive regime, and their efforts serve as a reminder that we must never give up the fight for our rights and freedom.
The novel also highlights the importance of solidarity and resistance. The characters in the novel come together to support one another and fight against the oppressive regime. This serves as a reminder that we must always stand in solidarity with those who are oppressed, and we must never turn a blind eye to injustice.
Overall, The Handmaid’s Tale is a novel that has a lot to teach us about the dangers of extremism and the importance of individual freedom. It’s a powerful reminder that we must always be vigilant and fight against any attempt to take away our rights and freedoms. It’s a novel that will stay with readers long after they’ve finished reading it, and it’s a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our society.
Powerful Quotes from The Handmaid’s Tale: A Reminder of the Importance of Freedom
The Handmaid’s Tale is a novel that is not only a gripping story but also a powerful commentary on the dangers of extremism and the importance of individual freedom. The book is filled with quotes that are not only thought-provoking but also serve as a reminder of the importance of standing up for our rights and freedoms.
One of the most powerful quotes in the book is
“Better never means better for everyone… It always means worse, for some.”
This quote highlights the harsh reality that when one group gains power, another group loses it. It’s a reminder that we must always be aware of the impact of our actions on others and strive for true equality.
Another quote that resonates with readers is
“I have given my name away, and in exchange I have been given a number.”
This quote speaks to the dehumanizing effects of government control, and how easily our identities can be stripped away. It’s a reminder of the importance of our individual freedoms and the dangers of allowing anyone to take them away.
Lastly,
“Nolite te Bastardes Carborundorum” translated as “Don’t let the bastards grind you down”
is a quote that serves as a reminder to always resist oppression and never give up the fight for our rights. It’s a quote that inspires readers to stand up against injustice and to never back down.
More Quotes:
- “Freedom, like everything else, is relative.”
“We were the people who were not in the papers. We lived in the blank white spaces at the edges of print. It gave us more freedom. We lived in the gaps between the stories.”
“Better never means better for everyone… It always means worse, for some.”
“I am a woman with thoughts and questions and shit to say. I say if I’m beautiful. I say if I’m strong. You will not determine my story – I will.”
“It is not possible for any one person, any one man or woman, to be responsible for everything that happens.”
“If you don’t enjoy solitude, you’re not going to enjoy being a writer.”
“I have given my name away, and in exchange I have been given a number.”
“Nolite te Bastardes Carborundorum.”
“The true thing is, I am free. I am free, isn’t that a marvelous thing to know?”
Overall, The Handmaid’s Tale is a novel that is filled with powerful quotes that serve as a reminder of the importance of freedom and the dangers of extremism. It’s a novel that will stay with readers long after they’ve finished reading it, and it’s a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our society.
A Comparison to Other Novels by the Author
Margaret Atwood is a renowned author, known for her thought-provoking and socially conscious novels. One of her most popular books is “The Handmaid’s Tale,” which has become a cultural phenomenon. In this table, we will compare “The Handmaid’s Tale” to other novels written by Atwood, examining the similarities and differences in themes, content, and reception by readers and critics.
| Novel | Themes | Content | Reception |
|---|---|---|---|
| “The Handmaid’s Tale” | Oppression, Control, and Individual Freedom | Set in a dystopian society where women are stripped of their rights and forced into reproductive servitude | Highly acclaimed and widely read, winning numerous awards and adapted into a successful TV series |
| “The Blind Assassin” | Secrets, Memory, and Identity | Tells the story of a woman who uncovers dark secrets about her family’s past | Received positive reviews and won the Booker Prize |
| “Oryx and Crake” | Genetic Engineering, Technology, and the Future | Set in a world where a deadly plague has wiped out most of humanity and a scientist grapples with his role in the catastrophe | Received positive reviews and nominated for several awards |
| “The Year of the Flood” | Religion, Environmentalism, and the End of the World | Set in a world where a religious cult and a group of environmentalists struggle to survive in a society ravaged by disease and disaster | Received positive reviews and nominated for several awards |
Recommended Reading
Introduction: “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that has become a cultural phenomenon. If you enjoyed this book, you may also enjoy the following books that explore similar themes and styles.
| Recommended Book | Author | Themes |
|---|---|---|
| “1984” | George Orwell | Oppression, Control, and Totalitarianism |
| “The Giver” | Lois Lowry | Society, Control, and Individual Freedom |
| “Fahrenheit 451” | Ray Bradbury | Censorship, Technology, and the Future |
| “The Hunger Games” | Suzanne Collins | Oppression, Control, and Revolution |
| “The Bell Jar” | Sylvia Plath | Oppression, Control, and the Struggle for Identity |
FAQ
Is “The Handmaid’s Tale” a classic?
"Absolutely! "The Handmaid's Tale" is widely recognized as a classic of dystopian fiction and is often studied in high school and university curriculums."
What themes does “The Handmaid’s Tale” explore?
"The novel explores themes of oppression, resistance, women's rights, and the dangers of religious extremism, among others."
What is the significance of the handmaids’ outfits in “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"The handmaids' outfits are designed to be both functional and symbolic. They serve to strip the handmaids of their individuality and make them subservient to the men in power. On the other hand (pun intended), the outfits also serve as a form of silent protest and resistance, as the handmaids are collectively showing their solidarity in their oppression."
Why was “The Handmaid’s Tale” banned?
" "The Handmaid's Tale" has been banned in various countries for its portrayal of a totalitarian theocracy and its graphic depictions of sexual violence."
Is “The Handmaid’s Tale” a movie or TV show?
"Both! "The Handmaid's Tale" was adapted into a movie in 1990 and a TV series in 2017, with the latter being a critically acclaimed and award-winning hit."
What is the narrative structure of “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"Margaret Atwood uses a first-person narrative structure in "The Handmaid's Tale," with Offred as the narrator, telling her story through a series of flashbacks and present-day events."
Is “The Handmaid’s Tale” a good book?
"Again, this is subjective, but "The Handmaid's Tale" is considered a classic of dystopian fiction and has received widespread critical acclaim. If you're a fan of the genre, it's definitely worth checking out."
What is the political message of “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of religious extremism, misogyny, and the abuse of power. The novel serves as a warning against the erosion of women's rights and the dangers of blind obedience to authority."
What is the significance of the color red in “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"Red is a recurring motif in the book, and it's associated with fertility, blood, and, most notably, the handmaids. The handmaids wear red robes, which serve as a visual representation of their status and a reminder of the violence they are subjected to."
What is the role of the Commander in “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"The Commander is a key figure in "The Handmaid's Tale." He is the man to whom Offred is assigned as a handmaid and is a symbol of the oppressive patriarchal system in Gilead."
Why did Margaret Atwood write “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"Margaret Atwood wrote "The Handmaid's Tale" as a response to the political and social changes of the 1980s. She was concerned about the erosion of women's rights and the rise of religious extremism, and wanted to create a warning against these dangers."
What is the significance of the name Offred in “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
"The name Offred is a combination of the words "of" and "Fred," meaning she is the property of a man named Fred. It is a reminder of the handmaids' status as property and not as individuals."
Is “The Handmaid’s Tale” a happy book?
"Well, it's not a feel-good book, let's put it that way. It's a powerful and thought-provoking novel, but it's definitely not a happy story. There are moments of hope, but for the most part, it's a bleak and disturbing look at a dystopian society."
Conclusion
The Handmaid’s Tale is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that has sparked important conversations about government control, oppression, and censorship. While the book’s controversial content has led to it being banned in certain countries and schools, it is important to understand the reasons for this censorship and the themes and messages that have led to it. In a world where censorship is still prevalent, it is crucial to read, understand and discuss books like The Handmaid’s Tale, to understand the complexities of human societies and how they can be improved.
Hey there fellow book lovers, are you ready to dive deeper into the world of “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood?
Well, you’re in luck because I’ve got some great resources for you to check out.
First up, we have the official Margaret Atwood website (https://www.margaretatwood.ca/) where you can find a ton of information about the author, including a complete list of her works and upcoming events.
Next, we have the “The Handmaid’s Tale” page on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38447.The_Handmaid_s_Tale) which is a great place to find reviews, ratings, and discussion about the book.
And last but not least, we have the “The Handmaid’s Tale” page on the website of The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/topic/book/the-handmaids-tale) where you can find articles, essays and various other resources related to the novel, including the reviews and essays by literary critics.
So, whether you’re looking for a deeper understanding of the themes and symbols in the book, or just want to see what other readers are saying about it, these websites are sure to have something for you. Happy reading!”