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Power Of Women In The Handmaid's Tale

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As the narrator’s mother stated, “truly amazing, what people can get used to, as long as there are a few compensations” (Atwood 225). This idea was what Gilead was hoping to create. Although Offred's current life pales in comparison to her pre-Gilead one, she can still be content with her relationship with Nick. He was, in a sense, the compensation for being integrated into Gileadean civilization. The Wife would also be another good example. Serena Joy has no power over her husband, but does have power over the rest of the women in the household. Being given this power, she makes full use if it and was fine with oppressing other women. In this kind of society, it is impossible to have a meaningful relationship legally.

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