Power in the Republic of Gilead essays

Power in the Republic of Gilead essays After reading through the few first chapters of Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale one could speculate that all men have extensive power. The fact is that they have more rights, liberties and privileges than women in this society. As an example, men were allowed to read. Literature consumption by women was considered to be a dangerous activity that could be responsible for a collapse of the nations political structure. According to one of the Gileads leaders, mens big mistake was teaching [women] to read. (Handmaids Tale, p389.) Furthermore, men seem to possess more control and authority. Only men can be Guardians, soldiers, doctors, etc. With one particular exception, ownership of weapons (pistols, automatic and melee) belonged only to males. Women that lived on the region of the Gilead domain were divided into groups. Handmaids were vital to the nation, because they were fertile. With birthrate declination these women, dressed in red, were essential and priceless. However, this f act only imposed more restrictions upon them. Women, and men for that matter, who were unable to procreate were exiled to the Colonies where they would meet their demise working in radioactive toxic dumps. There were also Aunts, who were permitted to carry weapons; they were used to control the handmaids. According to the leaders most cost-effective way to control women for reproductive and other purposes was through women themselves. ( The Handmaids Tale, p.390) It is erroneous to state however, that men in the Republic of Gilead had total autonomy. They also were obligated to follow rules, laws and restrictions. The guardians are forbidden to converse with any women, especially with the handmaids. Casual interactions between the soldiers and women were considered treachery and could result in being executed and displayed on the Wall. The Wall was utilized as a part o...