If The Handmaid’s Tale Was Real: Survival and Resistance Strategies in Oppressive Society

The dystopian world depicted in Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale is a chilling portrayal of an oppressive society. In this society, individuals are categorized based on their gender roles, and some tragic scenarios loom heavily over potential denizens. This essay explores the strategies and roles one might play in such a society, with a focus on the challenges faced by those who find themselves in less desirable positions.

Roles in Gileadean Society

The five roles in Gileadean society are meticulously assigned by the regime, and the challenges associated with each can be overwhelming. Here's a more detailed look at the five roles:

Commander's Wife: This role would be incredibly stifling, given the prohibition on reading. As a lover of literature, this lack of intellectual stimulation and freedom would be extremely distressing. Handmaid: This role requires giving up one's bodily autonomy and breaking the human spirit. The separation from one's identity and future children would be unbearable. Martah: This role, while modest in comparison, would still be mundane, involving constant domestic chores with little variation throughout the day. The monotony would likely be unbearable. Aunt: Teaching and guarding handmaids involves strict adherence to Gilead's doctrine. The psychological burden of enforcing such a repressive system would be immense. Econo-wife: This role would be somewhat bearable if one has a suitable husband and work in the home. However, given the age and menopausal status, this option seems less likely.

Survival Strategies

Given the grim realities of Gilead, it is crucial to consider the strategies that could be employed to survive and resist the regime. Here are some effective methods:

Forming Underground Networks

Building secret networks for communication and support is vital. These networks can help in exchanging intelligence, resources, and even organizing potential resistance movements. Members can share information about the regime, organize covert meetings, and coordinate acts of defiance.

Obtaining Forbidden Information and Resources

Possessing and sharing any forbidden information can be a powerful weapon against the regime. This includes accessing books, gathering news from outside Gilead, and learning about other similar regimes to understand how they have been dismantled. Having resources such as food, medical supplies, and technology can also be crucial for survival and resistance.

Nonviolent Resistance Tactics

Nonviolent resistance tactics include civil disobedience, implementing quiet acts of defiance, and refusing to comply with oppressive laws. These tactics can be used to highlight the injustices of the regime and garner support from sympathetic individuals within and outside the society.

Personal Survival and Advocacy

For those less fortunate, like Martha, it is essential to remain resilient and hopeful. Despite the monotony and lack of freedom, maintaining personal dignity and advocating for change can be empowering. For instance, one could:

Spying: While remaining inconspicuous, gathering information about the regime and possibly sharing it with those who can act on the information.

Supporting the Militia: Engaging in activities that support the local militia, such as growing food, providing IT support, or hacking to disrupt the regime's systems.

Utilizing Local Allies: Building relationships with those who share a similar disdain for the regime and are willing to work together for change.

In any case, the key is to remain calm, focused, and hopeful for a better future. Whether one's role is to fight against the regime from the inside or to flee for safety, the path to survival and resistance is ultimately a personal and collective journey.

Conclusion

The oppressive society of Gilead presents a bleak picture, but it also inspires resilience and courage. While the roles assigned to individuals may be daunting, the strategies of forming networks, obtaining forbidden information, and using nonviolent resistance can offer hope for survival and eventual change.