The Handmaid's Tale study note provides an in depth analysis of the novel, its themes, motifs and symbols. The study note also provides quotes and practice exam questions for the matric final exam.
The setting of "The Handmaid's Tale" is a critical element of the story, creating a chilling
backdrop that amplifies the themes of oppression, control, and societal decay.
Time Period
The novel is set in a dystopian future that seems plausible and yet disconcertingly different
from our present reality. While the exact time frame is not explicitly mentioned, the reader
can infer it as a not-too-distant future from the time the book was written (1985). The
narrative occasionally references events and societal shifts that are recognizable from the 20th
century, indicating that Gilead emerged following a period of societal unrest, political
upheaval, and environmental crises.
Lily Ngulube
, 4
Geopolitical Transformation
The Republic of Gilead is a totalitarian regime that has replaced the United States. The old
government has been overthrown, and a theocratic authority has taken control. This theocracy
is based on a twisted interpretation of Christian beliefs, resulting in a society that enforces
rigid, oppressive rules rooted in religious doctrine.
Social Hierarchy
Gilead operates under a strict social hierarchy, where individuals' rights and freedoms are
severely curtailed based on their social status. Women, in particular, are categorized and
assigned roles based on their fertility and societal standing. The hierarchical structure is
evident in the roles of Handmaids, Wives, Marthas, Aunts, and other positions that serve the
ruling class of Commanders.
Oppression and Control
The regime in Gilead exercises extreme control over its inhabitants, especially women. The
setting portrays a society where women are stripped of their autonomy, forbidden from
reading, working, owning property, or having any form of independence. Their primary value
lies in their ability to bear children, leading to the creation of the Handmaids, whose sole
purpose is to produce offspring for the elite.
Atmosphere and Environment
The setting contributes to an atmosphere of fear, surveillance, and bleakness. The society is
cloaked in an atmosphere of paranoia, with the Eyes, the secret police, monitoring everyone's
actions. The setting amplifies the sense of isolation and confinement felt by the characters, as
they navigate a world where trust is scarce, and betrayal could have fatal consequences.
Lily Ngulube
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