In Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, handmaids play a crucial role in the Republic of Gilead, where they are primarily valued for their ability to bear children. Restricted by strict societal norms and regulations, their actions are severely limited.
Handmaids are forbidden from reading, writing, or engaging in most forms of communication. They are stripped of their identities, assigned to Commanders and their Wives, and known only by the names of the men they serve, such as ‘Offred’ (of Fred). This reduction to mere vessels for reproduction highlights the totalitarian nature of Gilead and the repression of women’s autonomy.
Despite their restrictions, handmaids maintain a sense of agency in clandestine ways. They form bonds with one another, sharing secrets and strategies for survival. They also navigate the complex power dynamics with the Wives and Marthas, sometimes finding ways to subvert the oppressive system.
While they live under constant surveillance and face severe punishment for disobedience, handmaids can exhibit small acts of rebellion—such as engaging in forbidden conversations or secretly expressing their true feelings. These actions give them a sense of individuality and resistance within an oppressive framework.