Rape Fantasies

Write an essay that analyzes the relevance of Estelle’s point of view to the short story’s themes. Describe her narrative stance, voice, and tone. How do these elements of her narration relate to the story’s examinations of sexual violence, fear, and shame?

How does “Rape Fantasies” reflect the contradictory messages women received about safety and sexuality in the 1970s? Use examples from the story and the background section to explore how Atwood critiques public messaging, victim-blaming, and the internal conflicts women were left to navigate alone.

Compare and contrast each of the character’s rape fantasies. What overlaps or disparities do you notice between their stories? What do each of their fantasies say about them as individuals, or about their cultural moment?