Who is the Antagonist in The Handmaid's Tale?

The Handmaid's Tale, a dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood, weaves a complex narrative that challenges the reader to identify the primary antagonist. Upon closer inspection, the antagonist is not a single figure but a combination of forces that underpin the oppressive society of Gilead. Let's explore the various forms of antagonism in the story.

The Totalitarian Society as Antagonist

The Society of Gilead serves as the overarching antagonist that drives the narrative. This society is characterized by strict control, political repression, and gender-based oppression. The creation and maintenance of Gilead are inextricably linked to the overarching fear that drives its governance. This fear is rooted in several factors, including:

Fear of the unknown and unfamiliar Fear of losing control Fear of societal collapse The fear of a backwards shift in rights and freedoms

The society of Gilead is inherently antagonistic because it exists to suppress individual freedoms and autonomy, and it serves as the primary barrier between the characters and their desired ends. This totalitarian society is responsible for the suffering and tribulations of the protagonists, making it the core antagonist of the narrative.

The Commander and His Wife: Secondary Antagonists

While the Society of Gilead is the major antagonist, several specific characters also contribute to the oppressive environment. The Commander and his Wife stand out as secondary antagonists. Their portrayal is nuanced, as they embody the maintenance of status quo through control and manipulation:

The Commander

The Commander is a figure of authority who upholds the harsh laws of Gilead. His strict adherence to Gilead’s norms and the fear of consequences from anyone who steps outside them creates a chilling atmosphere for Offred, the protagonist. The Commander often uses his power to manipulate and harm Offred, making him a significant source of internal and external conflict in the story.

The Wife

The Wife, Serena Joy, embodies the essence of maternal oppression and societal manipulation. Her character is deeply tied to the culture of domesticity and the role of women in Gilead. She is both a victim and a tool, perpetuating the oppressive regime. Her presence in Offred’s life is contradictory as she sometimes aids and at other times hinders Offred, adds to the complexity of the moral and ethical dilemmas Offred faces.

Other Antagonistic Characters

In addition to the Commander and his Wife, other characters also serve important antagonistic roles in the story:

Aunt Lydia

Aunt Lydia is a former feminist who has become an enforcer of Gilead’s strict patriarchal norms. Her role as a mentor and oppressor is crucial in reinforcing the oppressive culture among Handmaids. She is responsible for instilling fear and maintaining the status quo, making her a significant antagonist in the early stages of Offred’s journey.

Commander Waterford

Commander Waterford is a figure of historical significance in Gilead, relevant in the ways he shaped and supported its formation. His actions and traits contribute to the oppressive atmosphere, as he is a listed example of those who perpetuate Gilead's oppressive society.

Serena Joy

Serena Joy also has a pivotal role in perpetuating the oppressive society. As the wife of a former leader, her position of power within the regime, as well as her apparent loss of identity, make her a central antagonist in the narrative. Her character represents the expected archetypical role of women in Gilead, and her actions further the oppressive policies.

In conclusion, while the Society of Gilead is the overarching antagonist, the roles of the Commander, his Wife, and characters like Aunt Lydia, Commander Waterford, and Serena Joy contribute significantly to the oppressive narrative of The Handmaid's Tale.