The Handmaid's Tale

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Throughout the novel, Offred struggles with various forms of complicity in her own oppression. Have you ever found yourself making compromises or accepting problematic or oppressive situations for the sake of survival or comfort?

2. The novel explores the insidious processes by which people can become gradually desensitized to the loss of their freedoms. Can you recall a time when you noticed yourself accepting something that you initially found to be unacceptable?

3. How would you respond if you were faced with Offred's situation? Would you be more like her, Moira, or Ofglen in your approach to survival and resistance?

4. Offred finds small ways to maintain her identity despite Gilead's attempts to erase it. What personal rituals or practices help you to maintain your sense of self during difficult times?

5. The novel shows how language can be used to control and manipulate people. Have you noticed similar uses of language to shape perceptions in your own society?

Examine the book's relevance to broader societal issues, cultural trends, and ethical dilemmas.

1. How does the novel's exploration of reproductive rights and bodily autonomy reflect ongoing debates in contemporary society?

2. The novel shows how religious texts can be manipulated to justify oppression. How are similar patterns of religious co-option being used to support political agendas today?

3. What parallels do you see between Gilead’s rise to power and current political movements or shifts in various parts of the world?

Dive into the book's structure, characters, themes, and use of narrative techniques.

1. How does Atwood use the color red as a symbol throughout the novel? What different meanings does this color take on in various contexts?

2. Examine the Commander’s role in the text. How does his seemingly benevolent behavior actually reinforce the systemic oppression of women in Gilead?

3. How are women reduced to body parts throughout the novel? What does this trend reveal about Gilead's views on women?

4. Analyze the significance of names and naming in the novel. How do the various names and labels (e.g., Offred, Unwomen, Angels) reflect the oppressive rationale underlying Gilead's power structures? What implicit parallels does the author draw to real-world manifestations of misogyny?

5. What role does memory play in the novel? How does Offred use her memories as an avenue of escape and a form of resistance?