Symbolism In The Handmaid's Tale, By Margaret Atwood

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Throughout The Handmaid’s Tale, by Margaret Atwood, Offred persistently deals with the political and social issues of the Republic of Gilead. Gilead is a completely new society that lacks love, expression of ideas, and advanced technology. Throughout the novel, Atwood uses symbolism and flashbacks to explore the political and social problems within the Republic, which include a lack of individualism and the restriction of emotion. These issues further emphasize her central message, which is a warning to future societies to beware of communism and dehumanization.
Firstly, throughout the novel, Atwood utilizes a great deal of symbolism to explore the lack of individualism and restriction of emotion present in the republic. Red is generally associated
Red also symbolizes fertility as Offred works for her Commander in an attempt to produce offspring. The red of Offred’s attire sharply contrasts with the blue tones of the Wives, who are sterile. The red attire that Offred carries on her body is a constant reminder of her sexual sins as well. Offred has been in three homes and has had sex with three Commanders. Additionally, she had intercourse with Luke while he was married to another woman. Clearly, the red symbolizes adultery, as Offred is constantly reminded of her sexual sins. The red apparel is used by Atwood to portray the communistic atmosphere of Gilead as each individual seems to be dehumanized. The red attire causes Offred to think of a past life in which she was not merely an item used for sex. Therefore, Atwood skillfully uses symbolism to explore the concept of communism and dehumanization. The red worn by Handmaids represents the communistic society of Gilead as individuality no longer exists and people are merely used for their abilities. Additionally, Atwood uses the white wings as a mechanism that makes it more difficult for Offred to realize her true identity. Once again, the issue of dehumanization is portrayed by the white wings as they cover the Handmaid’s

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