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The Handmaid's Tale By Margaret Atwood Essay

890 Words4 Pages

Surveillance and its Psychological Impact on society
Margaret Atwood’s novel the handmaid’s tale is argued to portray the psychological impact inflicted by constant surveillance in a variety of ways. These traits are influenced by “The Eyes” and their ruthless efforts towards their pursuit to obtain the order. Surveillance in Gilead is purposely used to dictate societies actions and reason to obey by instilling fear of persecution. In response to confinement of distinct actions inevitably leads to one’s oppressions of internal thoughts and the corruption of their sanity and mental health. In addition, actions enforced by authority develops a patterned behavior that contributes to lack of individuality. Surveillance being heavily present as …show more content…

An instance when Offred provides a glimpse of her insecurities based on her continuous fear is when she states “it’s also a story a story I’m telling in my head. Rather than write, because I have nothing to write with and writing is in any case forbidden” (37) this not only indicates that she is concealing thoughts that are considered out of context but also, she does not have written evidence to be used to potentially lead to her demise. The acknowledgement of Offred’s position in society also symbolizes that “The Eyes” have insured her comprehension of what her political standing is as she mentions “that’s where I am, there’s no escaping it. Times a trap, I’m caught in it… my names is Offred now, and here is where I live.”(135) With her acceptance of reality indicates that surveillance has influenced her freewill. Furthermore, actions are not based on personal acceptance and wiliness rather they are practiced from fear, Offred proves this by saying “we lived, as usual, by ignoring. Ignoring isn’t the same as ignorance, you have to work at it.” (53) Offred obedience is derived from obligation as she must adapt to the situation. Through the vast analysis of the handmaid’s tale, it is evident that surveillance is a key component in actualizing control, power, and fear over a

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