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The Handmaid's Tale: A Feminist Analysis

456 Words2 Pages

The topic I want to explore is defining feminist science fiction. I read The Handmaid's Tale last year while I was abroad, and was fascinated by the frightening reality that Margaret Atwood created. Furthermore, I find Margaret Atwood interesting. In the introduction of the novel, Margaret Atwood gives her thoughts on whether The Handmaid's Tale is a feminist novel. Her explanation expands on the concept that women are human beings that are “interesting and important” and are not second class citizens. Now I would like to take this opportunity to read other books which are similar to The Handmaid’s Tale because I am curious to see what types of futures other authors imagine. Also, I want to read other feminist fiction books that explore gender roles. As a woman in today's society, where I am still not quite equal to a man (men and woman at the same job and a …show more content…

For example, many sources define feminist science fiction as having a “kick-butt female protagonist.” However, I do not think that will be part of my definition because in The Handmaid’s Tale Offred often appears compliant.
Furthermore, before I start reading books knowing my reading purpose helps with my comprehension. So when I start reading The Snow Queen by Joan D. Vinge (published in 1980), The Power by Naomi Alderman (published in 2016), and Woman on the Edge of Time by Marge Piercy (published in 1976), I will be looking for answers to my driving questions. Having a focus will help me better understand what I am reading. I also plan on rereading The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood (published in 1985) due to the different way I will be approaching the

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