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Coping Mechanism In The Handmaid's Tale

469 Words2 Pages

‘Coping’ refers to conscious strategies used to reduce unpleasant emotions. In Margaret Atwood's novel ‘The Handmaid's Tale,’ the protagonist Offred employs various coping mechanisms to navigate her oppressive reality. This essay will explore Offred's acts of rebellion, her use of internal monologue, and the significance of the night sections as coping mechanisms. Offred refuses to succumb to the objectification desired by the regime, and so, she uses acts of rebellion as a coping mechanism. Initially subtle, her defiance escalates throughout the novel. For instance, she ‘refuse[s] to say my’ when referring to her assigned room, asserting her dominance. This defiance signifies her resistance against becoming a mere object in Gilead's oppressive …show more content…

By reflecting on her situation, she retains a sense of self and individuality within the confines of Gilead. One example of this is when she lists the objects in her room, such as ‘A chair, a table, a lamp’. This exercise allows her to ground herself in the present moment and retain a sense of normalcy amidst the oppressive environment. The night sections in the novel hold great psychological importance for Offred. They provide her with moments of freedom, allowing her to escape the oppressive events of the day. Offred treasures these moments as her own time, emphasizing their significance in maintaining her sanity and emotional well-being. During these night sections, Offred engages in nostalgic reminiscence, reflecting on her daughter and husband Luke. These memories serve as reminders of her past life and the immense loss she has experienced, highlighting the drastic change in society. In addition to all this, Offred also attempts to form connections with others with the goal of solace and support. She forms relationships with individuals like Ofglen and Moira in turn allowing her to share her experiences and exchange information. These connections support her emotionally and give her the strength she needs to

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