The Handmaid’s tale Literary Analysis
In the Introduction of The Handmaid’s Tale, recall that Margaret Atwood says she is frequently asked 3 questions about the book, one of which is “Is The Handmaid’s Tale a prediction?” She answers, “Let’s say it’s an anti-prediction: if this future can be described in detail, maybe it won’t happen.
But such wishful thinking cannot be depended upon either” (xviii). So to paraphrase Atwood, she is basically saying she hopes this story is not a prediction, but she leaves open the possibility that at least parts of what we see happen in this fictional tale might one day become reality.
Your task: Write an essay in which you either
1) argue that Atwood’s tale will remain pure fiction,
2) argue that certain parts of this tale may indeed come true.
If you argue that The Handmaid’s Tale will remain pure fiction, state in your topic the reasons why you believe this.
What are the specific safeguards or societal elements in place in America now that would prevent a takeover of the government like that described in Atwood’s novel (recall her description of “the catastrophe” on page 174)?
Write an argumentative essay in which you explore these guarantees against such a fiction. Explain your position by examining the conditions in the novel that could never happen here.
If, on the other hand, you argue that there are elements of The Handmaid’s Tale that may come true, are likely to come true, or are perhaps already true what are the specific reasons you believe this? Where do these possibilities exist?
Write an argumentative essay in which you explore these conditions that make this outcome likely. Refer to specific passages in the novel in your explanation.