Similarities Between Never Let Me Go And The Handmaids Tale

Despite being written over twenty years apart, Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go and Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale utilize similar dystopian elements to develop their dystopian vision. Firstly, the dystopian element of individuality is bad is seen when Kathy and the other Hailsham students are relentlessly taught to follow the steps laid out by society, similar to Offred and the Handmaids. Then, the dystopian protagonist is explored as both protagonists act similarly and are fearful of similar things whilst questioning and challenging the social and political systems. Finally, societal control is seen when the two dystopian protagonists attempt to rebel against their societies but eventually conform to the regime. Both Atwood and Ishiguro

However, in The Handmaid's Tale, the dystopian vision is much more extreme than in Never Let Me Go. Firstly, the dystopian element of individuality is bad is seen when Kathy and the other Hailsham students are relentlessly taught to follow the steps laid out by society, similar to Offred and the Handmaids. In Never Let Me Go, Ishiguro utilizes the dystopian characteristic of individuality is bad, to create a lifestyle and future that individuals must adhere to. Prior to Ruth´s completion, Ruth has heard rumours that if Kathy and Tommy can demonstrate that they are truly in love they may be able to defer from the donation program. Kathy is quite upset about this news and explains to Ruth why this plan would never work. Kathy cries, ¨ ´It's too late for all that now.´ I´d started to sob again. ´It's stupid even thinking about it. As stupid as wanting to work in that office up there. We´re all way beyond that now´ ¨ (Ishiguro 233). The Hailsham students grow up learning that they are to be students, then become carers and complete donations until their body is unable to keep up with the demands. Kathy is upset about the prospect of deferring because it goes against everything that she