Unique Dynamics Toward A Unified Freedom In The Handmaid's Tale

Sabrina Porco

Unique Dynamics Toward a Unified Freedom in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale.

“No two persons ever read the same book.” (https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/quotes-about-different-perspectives) Edmund Wilson captures the essence of human interpretations and actions, showing how one’s experience may be similar to another but it is the way of the mind that differentiates the outcome it is viewed. In Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, this idea is presented within the characters of Offred and Moira. Collectively, they inhibit the oppressive world of Gilead and endure the horrific acts of the regime. Both women exemplify the true struggle for freedom in a society where women are stripped of their rights

Offred’s secreted formation of comfort-filled relationships with others she is prohibited from being with, as per Gildead's rules, showcases her nuanced challenge against the control enforced against her autonomy. Whilst being in the presence of Nick, Offred proclaims, Being here with him is safe; it's a cave, where we huddle together while the storm goes on outside. This is a delusion, of course. This room is one of the most dangerous places I could be in. If I were caught there would be no quarter, but I'm beyond caring. Atwood: In her declaration, she acknowledges the inherent danger of their connection within their society, though shows to be careless. Despite this risk, Offred continues to prioritize human connection over the strict rules forced upon her. Offred knows that this provides her comfort amidst the detrimental circumstances outside of Nick's room, therefore risks it for that. This moment underlines the complexities of Offreds navigation to reclaiming agency, as well as, her maintenance of resilience amidst the heavy oppression she faces. Further, Offred's unpretentious rebellion through acts of defiance by stealing forbidden items serves as her way of stealing back her freedom from the oppressive regime. During her time in the sitting room,

Firstly, Offred's inner reflections on her past life from the disparity between her former freedoms and her current restrictive reality, attest to her resilience in handling the oppressive regime. Alone in her room, Offred’s mind starts to reminisce about her old life, stating “I want Luke here so badly. I want to be held and told my name. I want to be valued, in ways that I am not; I want to be more than valuable” It is evident that Offred misses her past life, situations and relationships, particularly her moments with Luke. These thoughts further encapsulate the emotional toll of Offred living under Gilead's regime, as she is aware she is not seen with value. Although, despite these poignant affects upon her, Offred's ability to reflect on her past in a facilitative form among dehumanizing conditions showcases her inner strength and resilience, accentuating the depth of Offred's capability to resist for her freedom. Furthermore, Offred’s hidden composure against forced procedures showcases her determination to defy and overthrow the Gilead forces which work to dehumanize her. Throughout her ceremony with the commander, Offred attempts to mask the brutal occurrence, voicing “Therefore I lie still and picture the unseen