Originally published on August 27, 2024 | Last updated on August 27, 2024
Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale has become a global phenomenon since its release in 1985, gaining even more attention with the popular TV adaptation that first aired in 2017. The novel’s chilling exploration of a dystopian society has resonated with readers and viewers alike. In 2019, Atwood continued the story with The Testaments, which quickly became a bestseller. In this post, I’ll be reviewing both books and delving into their themes.
The Handmaid’s Tale
Plot
The Handmaid’s Tale is set in a dystopian future where the United States has been replaced by the totalitarian and patriarchal regime of Gilead. In this oppressive society, women have lost all of their rights. The story follows Offred, a woman enslaved as a “Handmaid” whose sole purpose is to bear children for the ruling elite. Through Offred’s eyes, we witness the harsh realities of Gilead and her struggle for survival and autonomy.
Review
One aspect I really love about The Handmaid’s Tale is Atwood’s incredible skill at world-building. She has crafted a dystopian reality that feels disturbingly believable. Every detail, from the strict societal structure to the extreme cruelty, is meticulously constructed. The novel is brilliantly written; Atwood’s prose is eloquent, vivid, introspective and chillingly graphic. Through her writing, Atwood brings Gilead to life and creates a world that will stay in the reader’s mind for a long time.
The Handmaid’s Tale delves deeply into themes of feminism, exploring the oppression and subjugation of women in a patriarchal society. Atwood’s portrayal of Gilead serves as a powerful message on the dangers of extreme control over women’s bodies and rights. Through Offred’s experience as a handmaid, Atwood highlights the resilience and strength of women, and reminds us how important the fight for freedom is. Atwood’s ability to combine a compelling, gripping narrative with profound social and political views is what makes this novel a unique and timeless piece. Although this book was written nearly 40 years ago, it is still very relevant today.
The Handmaid’s Tale Rating – 5/5
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
The Handmaid’s Tale masterfully explores feminist themes, highlighting the dangers of patriarchal control and the importance of women’s autonomy. Atwood’s vivid portrayal of Gilead remains eerily relevant today, making this novel a powerful and timeless read worthy of a full 5-star rating.
The Testaments
Plot
The Testaments is set 15 years after the events of The Handmaid’s Tale and follows the lives of three women connected to the regime of Gilead — Aunt Lydia, a powerful figure within the oppressive system, Agnes, a young woman who lives in Gilead, and Daisy, a young woman who lives in Canada and discovers that she was born in Gilead. As their paths cross, they reveal hidden truths about Gilead’s inner workings and the resistance against it, leading to a dramatic conclusion that challenges the future of the regime.
Review
I found The Testaments to be an excellent sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale. The novel widens our understanding of Gilead and delivers a compelling continuation to its predecessor. The three different POVs in the sequel allows the reader to see different perspectives and understand the world that Atwood created even more. I really enjoyed the character of Aunt Lydia as her character adds significant depth to the narrative, and it was interesting to learn about her capture pre-Gilead and the choices she makes afterwards. In addition, The Testaments cleverly contrasts her narrative with the experiences of the two younger women. By giving us multiple viewpoints, the novel examines the moral complexities of those who uphold and those who resist the regime.
The Testaments delivers a powerful message about resistance and the quest for freedom. The novel conveys how individuals, even within the most repressive environments, can find ways to challenge and fight against it, making a statement about the importance of justice, equality, independence and autonomy.
The Testaments Rating – 5/5
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
The Testaments is a gripping sequel that expands the world of Gilead with fresh perspectives and captivating storytelling. Atwood expertly intertwines the viewpoints of the three women, delivering a compelling exploration of power and resistance.
