57 pages • 1 hour read
The Handmaid's Tale
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Book Brief
311
Novel • Fiction
Gilead • Near Future
1985
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Handmaid's Tale, by Margaret Atwood, is set in a dystopian future where the protagonist, Offred, serves as a Handmaid in the repressive theocracy known as the Republic of Gilead. Offred is forced to bear children for the ruling class and recounts her daily life alongside memories of her past before the regime's rise. The narrative explores her interactions with the Commander, his Wife Serena Joy, and figures like Nick and her fellow Handmaids while subtly uncovering a resistance movement against the theocratic rule. The story reveals Offred's struggle for autonomy and identity in a society that severely restricts women's rights and freedoms. The plot includes instances and discussions of misogyny, abuse, rape, assault, and suicide.
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
2,287,442 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale has been praised for its compelling, dystopian narrative and rich, thought-provoking themes on gender and power. Critics highlight Atwood's eloquent writing and the novel's chilling relevance. However, some find its bleakness challenging and character development occasionally lacking. Overall, it remains a poignant, impactful read.
Who Should Read The Handmaid's Tale?
Readers who enjoy dystopian fiction with strong feminist themes, thought-provoking social commentary, and complex characters will appreciate The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood. Fans of George Orwell’s 1984 and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World will find this novel particularly engaging.
2,287,442 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Commander
The Commander
The Commander is a high-ranking officer in Gilead and Offred's master. He initially treats Offred with indifference but later forms a secret relationship with her. He is a key figure in the oppressive regime, yet lacks awareness of its impact on women.
Nick
Nick
Nick is the Commander’s driver and a member of the household. He and Offred share a mutual attraction, leading to an affair. His true intentions and feelings are uncertain, but he might be involved with an underground resistance movement.
Serena Joy
Serena Joy
Serena Joy is the Commander’s Wife and a former gospel singer. She resents Offred due to her infertility and the Commander's attention towards her. Despite her earlier advocacy for traditional family values, she is complicit in Gilead's oppressive regime.
311
Novel • Fiction
Gilead • Near Future
1985
Adult
18+ years
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