This is a TV series broadcasted starting with April 2017 by the streaming TV network Hulu. The TV series is based on the similarly titled best-selling novel by Margaret Atwood and portrays a dystopian world which faces a massive infertility crisis. The power in US has been taken by a ...Read More
This is a TV series broadcasted starting with April 2017 by the streaming TV network Hulu. The TV series is based on the similarly titled best-selling novel by Margaret Atwood and portrays a dystopian world which faces a massive infertility crisis. The power in US has been taken by a religious radical group which discriminates against women and uses fertile women as surrogate mothers to give birth to babies for the society’s top class. Handmaid's Tale essay topics are especially relevant since the latter is a good reminder of how fragile democracies are if people don’t do enough to protect their civic rights in time. We selected the most crucial the Handmaid's Tale essay topics. Check out the samples of the Handmaid's Tale essay topics in this rubric for more inspiring topics.
‘If I wanted to say just one thing to one person, I would write a letter.’ - Margaret Atwood Made-to-order essay as fast as you need it Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences + experts online Get my essay Given the...
“Feminist readings often discuss the “jobs” that are traditionally assigned to women, such as tending a home, caring for a husband, and bearing children, and the ways in which these jobs are used to keep women in a powerless position. Female sexuality, and the way...
In Margaret Atwood’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, a range of narrative techniques are used to reveal the severity of life in Gilead, a dystopia foreshadowing the corrupt future of American society under a fundamentalist Christian regime. Published in 1986 whereby the ‘Religious Right’ had gained influence,...
Humans can only experience life subjectively: each of us is rooted in our own individual positions that cause us to perceive differing shades of reality. An awareness of this universal condition permeates Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, as June, the protagonist, constantly hints at the...
In The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, Offred, the main character lives in Gilead, a dystopia where fertile women are solely used to reproduce children. Known as handmaids, these women are confined into prison-like centers and forced to fornicate with an aging commander. In this...
Since the beginning of history, language has been the most important means of communication and development amongst humans. Because of language’s enormous significance, manipulating it to control a large group of people is extremely effective. In The Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood creates Gilead, an imaginary...
Whilst identity in the modern day setting is seen as a fundamental right, in the seemingly dystopian society of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, identity is robbed by the government to create a subservient society. As is common with totalitarian regimes, people are divided and...
Throughout the novel “The Handmaid’s Tale” readers can charter the increasing limitations the patriarchy places on the female identity through the experiences of the protagonist and the first-person narration Offred delivers along with her flashbacks to the society that preceded, conveying both the initial lack...
In harsh circumstances, people try to hold onto a thought or memory of a person or idea that gives them long lasting hope. This inspiration lets the hopeless party believe that their situation will improve. In the novel The Handmaid’s Tale written by Margaret Atwood,...
The Handmaids Tale is a piece of literature that teaches the reader universal truth as well as life lessons. The novel has been banned in some school for being too offensive to Christians and sexuality explicit. Other think the novel should be read by many....
Over the course of history many governments, political figures, religious groups, and other organizations have used language to influence the population of every geographical area. Understanding that language and how it can be used to not only influence decisions from simple choices like what to...
Offred and Winston, the main protagonists of the two strikingly similar dystopian fictions, The Handmaid’s Tale and 1984, have disparate fates in the endings of the novels. Julia’s fate, however, is undetermined, as (like the two protagonists of both novels), she succumbs to the party...
Every piece of literature has already been written; the reason for this is the phenomenon of archetypes. Archetypes are symbols, images, characters, ideas, and themes that are occurring all throughout literature. Carl Joung believed that these archetypes are due to the human unconsciousness. He stated...
Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale presents a disturbing future dystopia in which all power is stripped from women and left in a male-dominated power structure. Throughout the novel, betrayal remains the over-arching theme, seen in men’s betrayal of women as well as the reason behind...
Made-to-order essay as fast as you need it Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences + experts online Get my essay In everyday life we encounter people who can be nice, moderate, or are just monsters. Those monsters are corrupt, inconsiderate,...
Texts are, by nature, cultural artefacts, intrinsically influenced by the societys from which they emerge. Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale (1985) offers a “twist of today’s society” – the phallocentric Gileadean dictatorship, as seen through the eyes of narrator Offred. Set in a totalitarian and...
When the general public studies and analyzes fiction, the plot, exposition of characters, climax, and resolution seemingly serve as the “critical” elements highlighted in its evaluation. Provocative literature, however, employs several less predictable but arguably more poignant characteristics. Description and symbolism flesh out the plot...
Introduction The Handmaid’s Tale, written by Margaret Atwood, is set in the early twentieth century in a new American fundamentalist society called Gilead. The novel is told in the first person by the protagonist through the use of flashbacks to highlight a challenging apathy among...
The book I read was The Handmaid’s Tale by Marget Atwood . The Handmaid’s Tale has a total of 311 pages. The genre of the novel is science fiction. The vocabulary in the book is easy / moderate . Some of the words that I...
Introduction In the novel The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, although the women don’t have human rights, they possess much more power than one might initially think. Toward the end of the novel, in chapter forty-three, during the salvaging, Aunt Lydia makes an unexpected announcement...
Kindness, when given out, is habitually expected to be returned. More often than not it is seen that kindness, in fact, is given so that something else of value may be returned. Kindness is often exchanged for similar invaluable things like favouritism and prosperity, making...
Inspiration can often be found even in the darkest of times. Often, when people are going through difficult times, they find inspiration in things such as religion, books, and even other people. In The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, Offred, the novel’s protagonist, lives in...
Through a focus upon gender, both Elia Kazan’s film of Tennessee Williams’ original play, A Streetcar Named Desire (Warner Bros, 1951) and Margaret Atwood’s novel, The Handmaid’s Tale (Vintage, 1986) effectively manage to mirror the concerns of both time and place. Despite differing contextual influences,...
Camus wrote that “the world is ugly and cruel, but it is only by adding to that ugliness and cruelty that we sin most gravely”. Made-to-order essay as fast as you need it Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences + experts...
In the world of literature, it is all about your reputation. Made-to-order essay as fast as you need it Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences + experts online Get my essay Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, an Orwellian romp into the...
Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale is the story of life in the dystopia of Gilead, a totalitarian society in what was the United States. This regime treats women as property of the state, and is faced with environmental disasters and a plummeting birth rate. In a...
Margaret Atwood’s novel, “The Handmaid’s Tale” is set historically and geographically in the American 1980s, with its “liberal anxieties” concerning women’s and civil rights. It is a representation of the individualistic and pluralistic feminism of the late 60s and 80s. Encompassing a span of “feminine...
In Margret Atwood’s 1985 book, The Handmaid’s Tale, she uses flashbacks, appeals to pathos, and references to religion to show how important feminism is to America and how we shouldn’t let our future progeny grow complacent and forget the struggles their ancestors went through. Made-to-order...
The narrator in The Handmaid’s Tale is Offred, whose real name is June, and the book is in her point of view, which is first person, because she explains and describes everything she sees. She describes her thoughts and if she is thinking of something,...
Naomi Alderman’s 2016 ‘The Power’ explores a world in which women become the dominant figures in society as a result of the development of an ability to release electrical impulses from their fingers. Atwood’s ‘The Handmaids Tale’, published in 1985, thus falling squarely within the...
Offred, The Commander, Serena Joy, Ofglen, Nick, Moira, Luke, Professor Pieixoto, Aunt Lydia, Cora
Based on
One of the key influences for "Handmaid's Tale" is the feminist movement and women's rights activism. Atwood explores themes of gender inequality, reproductive rights, and the subjugation of women in a patriarchal society. The novel reflects the author's concerns about the potential consequences of eroding women's rights and the dangers of religious fundamentalism.
Additionally, historical events such as the Puritan era in colonial America and the rise of totalitarian regimes contribute to the narrative of "Handmaid's Tale." Atwood draws parallels to these periods to emphasize the dangers of extremist ideologies and the erosion of personal freedoms.
The novel also reflects Atwood's observations of social and political trends in her contemporary world, including the feminist backlash and conservative movements.
Plot
In a dystopian future, "Handmaid's Tale" portrays a society known as Gilead, where women's rights have been severely restricted. Offred, the protagonist, is a handmaid assigned to a high-ranking Commander and his infertile wife. Her sole purpose is to bear children for them, as procreation rates have drastically declined.
Stripped of her identity and reduced to her reproductive capacity, Offred navigates her new reality, where she must conform to strict rules and endure a life of surveillance and oppression. The narrative reveals the suffocating control Gilead exerts over women's bodies and lives, as well as the indoctrination and manipulation used to maintain the regime's power.
Through flashbacks and inner reflections, Offred recounts her life before the rise of Gilead and her longing for freedom. She forms clandestine connections with other characters, navigating the intricate web of secrets and betrayals that exist within the society.
As Offred navigates the treacherous landscape of Gilead, she becomes entangled in acts of rebellion and defiance against the oppressive regime. The novel explores themes of resistance, identity, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity.
Setting
The setting of "Handmaid's Tale" is a dystopian future known as Gilead, which was once the United States. Gilead is a theocratic society that has emerged after a period of political and social unrest. The novel is primarily set in the fictional city of Gilead, although specific geographic details are sparse.
Gilead is a highly controlled and oppressive regime, where strict religious ideologies dictate every aspect of society. The government has taken extreme measures to enforce its authority, subjugating women and stripping them of their rights. The setting is characterized by a pervasive atmosphere of fear, surveillance, and isolation.
The physical landscape of Gilead reflects the regime's values and control. Public spaces are heavily regulated, and symbols of power and oppression are prominently displayed. The Handmaids, like Offred, are assigned to live in austere households, known as Commanders' houses, where they are constantly monitored and subjected to a rigid hierarchy.
Themes
"Handmaid's Tale" explores several thought-provoking themes that resonate with readers. One prominent theme is the oppression and subjugation of women. In the dystopian society of Gilead, women are reduced to their reproductive capabilities and are subjected to a system that strips them of their autonomy, identity, and agency. This theme highlights the importance of gender equality and the consequences of patriarchal control.
Another theme is the power of language and storytelling. The novel demonstrates how language can be manipulated and controlled to shape narratives and maintain social hierarchies. It delves into the ways in which language can be both liberating and oppressive, and how narratives can be used to resist or reinforce systems of power.
The theme of resistance is also significant in "Handmaid's Tale." The story follows the protagonist, Offred, as she navigates the oppressive society and seeks moments of rebellion and defiance. It explores the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for individuals to resist and challenge unjust systems.
Literary Devices
One notable device is the use of symbolism. Margaret Atwood skillfully incorporates symbolic elements throughout the narrative to convey deeper meaning. For example, the color red symbolizes both fertility and the loss of freedom for the handmaids. The handmaids' distinctive red robes represent their roles as reproductive vessels and serve as a constant reminder of their subjugation.
Another literary device employed in the novel is the use of irony. Atwood uses irony to highlight the stark contrast between the purported intentions of the totalitarian regime in Gilead and the reality of its oppressive nature. The establishment of Gilead is presented as a means to restore order and protect women, yet it perpetuates their marginalization and strips them of their rights.
Imagery is another powerful device in "Handmaid's Tale." Atwood's vivid descriptions create a vivid and unsettling visual landscape, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the dystopian world. For instance, the image of the wall, adorned with the bodies of executed rebels, serves as a chilling reminder of the consequences of resistance.
Additionally, the narrative structure itself is significant. Atwood employs a nonlinear narrative that moves between past and present, providing glimpses into the protagonist's life before and after Gilead. This narrative device adds depth to the story, allowing for a deeper exploration of Offred's character and the societal changes that led to the rise of Gilead.
In Media
One notable representation of "Handmaid's Tale" is the critically acclaimed television series adaptation. Launched in 2017, the series has received widespread acclaim for its faithful depiction of the novel's themes and its chilling portrayal of the totalitarian society of Gilead. The series has garnered numerous awards and nominations, bringing renewed attention to the story and its relevance in contemporary society.
Another representation of "Handmaid's Tale" is its presence in academic discussions and literary analyses. The novel has become a staple in literature courses, feminist studies, and dystopian fiction studies, prompting insightful academic conversations about its themes, narrative techniques, and social commentary.
Furthermore, "Handmaid's Tale" has inspired artistic interpretations in various mediums. From theater adaptations to art installations, artists have explored and reimagined the novel's themes and imagery, further contributing to its cultural impact.
Influence
The influence of "Handmaid's Tale" extends beyond its initial publication, making a profound impact on literature, popular culture, and feminist discourse. Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel has become a touchstone for exploring themes of gender oppression, reproductive rights, and authoritarianism.
One significant influence of "Handmaid's Tale" is its contribution to feminist literature. The novel's portrayal of a society that subjugates and controls women's bodies has sparked important discussions about patriarchal power structures and the struggle for women's rights. It has inspired feminist writers to address similar themes and explore the complexities of gender inequality in their own works.
The novel's cultural influence is evident in its adaptation into a highly acclaimed television series. The show's popularity has generated widespread conversation, not only about the original story but also about contemporary social and political issues.
Furthermore, "Handmaid's Tale" has influenced the discourse on reproductive rights, sparking debates and drawing attention to the importance of bodily autonomy. It has provided a cultural reference point for discussions on the dangers of authoritarianism and the potential erosion of civil liberties.
Did You Know?
1. "Handmaid's Tale" has been translated into over 40 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide since its publication in 1985.
2. The novel has been awarded numerous prestigious literary prizes, including the Governor General's Award for Fiction in Canada and the Arthur C. Clarke Award for Science Fiction.
3. The impact of "Handmaid's Tale" extends beyond literature, as it has become a symbol of resistance and empowerment for marginalized communities. The iconic red cloak and white bonnet worn by the Handmaids have been adopted as symbols of protest in various women's rights demonstrations and political movements, emphasizing the novel's ability to inspire collective action and serve as a visual representation of dissent.
Why should this topic be used?
"The Handmaid's Tale" is an important and compelling subject to write an essay about due to its profound exploration of themes that remain relevant in contemporary society. By delving into topics such as gender inequality, reproductive rights, authoritarianism, and the dangers of extremism, the novel prompts critical examination and provokes discussions on pressing social issues.
Through its vivid portrayal of a totalitarian society, it challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about power dynamics, the oppression of women, and the value of individual freedom.
By studying "The Handmaid's Tale," students and scholars can engage in critical discourse, explore complex literary devices, and gain deeper insights into the social, political, and ethical implications of the novel.
Quotes
"The moment of betrayal is the worst, the moment when you know beyond any doubt that you've been betrayed: that some other human being has wished you that much evil."
"We lived, as usual, by ignoring. Ignoring isn't the same as ignorance, you have to work at it."
"You can only be jealous of someone who has something you think you ought to have yourself."
"We thought we had such problems. How were we to know we were happy?"
"You can't help what you feel, but you can help how you behave."
Related Resources
1. Bacci, F. (2017). The Originality of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Children of Men: Religion, Justice, and Feminism in Dystopian Fiction. Metacritic Journal for Comparative Studies and Theory, 3(2), 154-172. (https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=594496)
2. Atwood, M. (2017). Margaret Atwood on what ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’means in the age of Trump https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/10/books/review/margaret-atwood-handmaids-tale-age-of-trump.html. The New York Times, 10.
3. Marghitu, S., & Moore Johnson, K. (2018). Feminist online responses against the US Alt-right: Using The Handmaid’s Tale as a symbol and catalyst of resistance. Communication Culture & Critique, 11(1), 183-185. (https://academic.oup.com/ccc/article-abstract/11/1/183/4953978)
4. DeKeseredy, W., DeKeseredy, A. & DeKeseredy, P. (2021). 6. Understanding The Handmaid’s Tale: The Contribution of Radical Feminism. In J. Grubb & C. Posick (Ed.), Crime TV: Streaming Criminology in Popular Culture (pp. 82-95). New York, USA: New York University Press. (https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.18574/nyu/9781479804368.003.0007/pdf#APA)
5. Bazin, N. T. (1991). Women and revolution in dystopian fiction: Nadine Gordimer's July's People and Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale. In J. M. Crafton (Ed.), Selected essays: International conference on representing revolution 1989 (pp. 115-127). West Georgia College. (https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/english_fac_pubs/141/)
6. Lois Feuer (1997) The Calculus of Love and Nightmare: The Handmaid's Tale and the Dystopian Tradition, Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction, 38:2, 83-95. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00111619.1997.10543167?journalCode=vcrt20)
7. Neuman, S. (2006). ‘Just a Backlash’: Margaret Atwood, Feminism, and The Handmaid's Tale. University of Toronto Quarterly, 75(3), 857-868. (https://www.utpjournals.press/doi/abs/10.3138/utq.75.3.857?journalCode=utq)
8. Xie, J. (2021). Symbolism of Flowers in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale. Open Access Library Journal, 8(7), 1-8. (https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=110737)
9. Staels, H. (1995). Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale: resistance through narrating. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00138389508598988?journalCode=nest20)
10. Miner, M. (1991). " Trust Me": Reading the Romance Plot in Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale. Twentieth Century Literature, 37(2), 148-168. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/441844)
