The Role of Marthas and Female Solidarity

The second page of the document continues to explore the power dynamics among women in Gilead, focusing on the role of Marthas and the limited forms of female solidarity that exist within this oppressive society.

Marthas, who are domestic workers in Gilead, occupy a unique position in the social hierarchy. While they lack the reproductive power of Handmaids or the social status of Wives, they are often perceived more positively by other women.

Highlight: Atwood portrays Marthas as the only gentle female characters, suggesting that in Gilead, female solidarity is primarily found in domestic roles.

This portrayal reinforces the idea that in Gilead, women's primary value is tied to traditional domestic duties such as cooking and cleaning. However, the relationship between Marthas and Handmaids is not always harmonious.

Quote: "Nothing I bring fully pleases her"

This quote, referring to Rita, a Martha, demonstrates the tension that can exist between Marthas and Handmaids. It suggests that even within the limited scope of female relationships in Gilead, there are still barriers and conflicts.

The character of Cora, another Martha, is presented as slightly more sympathetic to the Handmaid's plight:

Quote: "She actually smiles at me"

This small gesture of kindness highlights how rare and significant even minor acts of solidarity between women have become in Gilead.

Vocabulary: Martha - In The Handmaid's Tale, Marthas are women assigned to domestic duties in the households of the elite.

The document emphasizes that while Marthas may seem more approachable or kind, their role is still strictly defined by the oppressive system of Gilead. Their perceived gentleness is a result of their domestic role rather than a true form of sympathy or solidarity.

Example: The limited interaction between Offred and Rita, despite living in the same household, demonstrates how the rigid social structure of Gilead prevents genuine connections between women of different classes.

This analysis of the various female roles in Gilead provides valuable insight for students studying The Handmaid's Tale for A level exams. It highlights the complex power dynamics and the ways in which the oppressive system pits women against each other, making it an excellent resource for Handmaid's Tale revision A level.

Power Dynamics Among Women in Gilead

The first page of the document delves into the complex power relationships between different groups of women in the dystopian society of Gilead, as portrayed in The Handmaid's Tale. It explores how the roles assigned to women in this oppressive regime both grant and limit their power, often leading to resentment and conflict.

Handmaids are central to the power structure of Gilead, yet their power is paradoxical. Their ability to bear children gives them immense value, but it also reduces them to mere vessels for reproduction. This objectification is evident in the way Handmaids are treated and in their own self-perception.

Quote: "You must be a worthy vessel"

Quote: "I don't want to look at something that determines me so completely"

These quotes highlight the internal struggle Handmaids face as they grapple with their assigned role and the loss of their individual identity.

Wives, despite their elevated status, find their power limited by their inability to conceive. This creates a complex dynamic where they exert control over Handmaids while simultaneously resenting them. Serena Joy, a prominent Wife character, exemplifies this conflicted relationship.

Quote: "I want to see as little of you as possible"

Quote: "This is like a business transaction"

These statements from Serena Joy reveal the disdain and emotional detachment Wives often feel towards Handmaids, viewing them as necessary but unwelcome intruders in their homes.

Aunts play a crucial role in maintaining the social order of Gilead by indoctrinating Handmaids. Their power stems from their ability to shape the mindset of the Handmaids and enforce the rules of the new society.

Highlight: Atwood's use of the term "Aunts" is a clever linguistic choice, emphasizing how women are pitted against each other in Gilead, leaving Handmaids with no true allies.

Quote: "Freedom to and freedom from"

This quote, often attributed to Aunt Lydia, encapsulates the twisted logic used to justify the oppressive system in Gilead.