The Handmaid’s Tale is a popular science fiction novel written by Margaret Atwood. It is set in a dystopian future where a totalitarian regime, known as Gilead, has taken over the United States. Under this new regime, women are stripped of their rights and treated as property. This includes the handmaids, women who are forced to bear children for the ruling class.
Who is the Disciplinary Woman?
The disciplinary woman is a character in The Handmaid’s Tale who is responsible for enforcing the rules of Gilead. She is a member of the Eyes, the secret police force of the regime. Her job is to ensure that everyone follows the rules and punishes those who do not.
Throughout the novel, the disciplinary woman is portrayed as a cruel and cold-hearted individual. She is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain order, including violence and torture. Her presence is a constant reminder of the harsh reality of life in Gilead.
Disciplinary Woman and Offred
Offred is the main character in The Handmaid’s Tale. She is a handmaid who is assigned to a high-ranking official, known as the Commander. Throughout the novel, Offred becomes increasingly rebellious against the regime, which puts her at odds with the disciplinary woman.
At one point in the novel, Offred is caught breaking the rules by the disciplinary woman. As punishment, she is beaten and forced to endure a painful procedure. This traumatic event serves as a turning point for Offred, pushing her further towards rebellion.
The Significance of the Disciplinary Woman
The disciplinary woman is a significant character in The Handmaid’s Tale because she represents the oppressive nature of the regime. She is a symbol of the violence and brutality that is necessary to maintain order in Gilead.
Her presence also serves as a warning about the dangers of totalitarianism. The disciplinary woman is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain order, even if it means violating basic human rights. This is a reminder that the preservation of democracy and freedom requires constant vigilance.
Conclusion
The disciplinary woman in The Handmaid’s Tale is a symbol of the brutal and oppressive nature of the regime. Her presence serves as a reminder of the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of protecting democracy and freedom.
As readers, we are left to ponder the significance of her character and the lessons that we can learn from her story.