Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society. ​

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society. ​

     The central problem in The Handmaid's Tale is that women are not seen as equals...In fact, all women are used for is to cater to men. This is shown throughout the book as the Handmaids are treated with very little respect, they are taken advantage of, and they are spoken to. A Handmaid's only true "purpose" in life was to carry a baby to term. In a way, this somehow reminds me of our society, today. This has become a large controversial topic within the past century, and it has seemed to lighten quite a bit. For example, women in today's society have gained the right to vote, they have an equal right to any job as a man does, and they are becoming more independent. Not too long ago, women were seen as "dependent" to their male role, and it was their "duty" to follow and support him with whatever comes their way. This has changed drastically, yet there is still discrimination. As the Handmaids were not treated as equals, women in reality today are not guaranteed equality...Or so it seems like. 
     I think that the worse action to take, when trying to resolve this problem is to take equality away from men. It seems as if they are more resistant to this change if they see that it directly, in a good way. If I were to solve this problem, I would, actually begin by advertising what equality truly means especially GENDER equality! I would make sure everyone was on the same page when talking about this, since I am pretty sure nobody really understnds. Next, I would start a movement! This would be very peaceful, yet forceful! Then, I would educate. This was one of the main problems in, The Handmaid's Tale. The women were limited to their education because the men didn't want them to begin "getting ideas." Gender equality is not only about raising the equality towards just women... It involved equality between EVERYONE. As it may take a while, I think that this issue needs to be addressed quickly, before our society goes into a deep hole, as in The Handmaid's Tale. 

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society. ​- Ray'Jhean O'Neal

The main problem displayed in the dystopian society in The Handmaid's Tale, was the lack of voice and opinion in the people to the government and the city's laws. I believe that the people in the society had little to no opinion in the development of the society. They did not choose to have their lives turned around. When the dystopian came to be, they were forced to wear, do, and live whatever way the government wanted them to. The people who rebelled against the laws of the governemt were killed and hung on a wall as a prop to show other people what the should not do. This striked fear in the people, and they felt hopeless. To fix the problem, the government could allow some freedom to the people, like what clothes to wear and where to live. Also, they could at least give the people a warning to what laws or policies they are going to enforce. To completely eliminate the dystopian society, the government could allow the people to vote on what they want for their society, instead of having the government making all the decisions for them. I think a society works when there is a good relationship between the government and the people. A compromise should be in place between both parties to please on another. The government in this dystopian society deprived the people of their human rights that belonged to them, and it ultimately caused it to fail and for it to be considered a dystopian.

Resolving the Dystopia

In this novel clearly there are many problems in the society, but most importantly women can't do or say anything without being told to do so. This is the number one problem for me because I am a female and I wouldn't want to go through what any of the women of the society did. A lot of women in their society were not able to have children so ofcourse the main target would be women. That was the society's goal to keep having children. In my opinion women should not be stripped of their rights. Women should be able to do what they want and how they want to. Offered in chapter 16 was basically ordered to try to have a child with the man of the house. Well all of the handmaids had to because that is what they are for just to give a new life to the society. None of them had any family with them because it was taking from them. To solve this the government in charge should not pass laws like that ever again and if that was a problem maybe the women who like to have children can stay to have them. Believe it or not some women actually agree on the society's rules. But the women who don't should be able to leave and go on with their lives up to how they want. Maybe that's not the best plan to get back into a functional and fair society but women don't want to have to bear children when they don´t want to.

Resolving the Dystopia

In the novel the handmaid tale the society that they leaved in wasn't fair for women, all their rights were taking away, the right to do and say what they wanted was taking away from them. It started off slow but later it progressed. And now they are leaving in a society where they cant wear what they want, they cant say what they want, and they cant act the way that they want. They are begin controlled by man , and those of higher ranks. The main point in The Handmaid tale is that women are not free. This society needs many changes in order to became a well function society and one of those thing is giving freedom to all citizens not only men but also to women. I would start by letting them work again, and having a bank account. But in order for this plan to take action I would need many rebels so that we can over thrown the government. And change the way society is. Change the way that girls were overlooked. For example in The Handmaid Tale offred tells us how life was before it got turned around she could wear what she wanted, could go to work and if she wanted to  own a bank account she could and that's what makes it a fair society. She couldn't stay with her family and daughter, they took that away from her without saying a thing which violated her freedom in every single way. So my plan is to stand up and gather as many people i can to over thrown the government and bring peace and the most important thing of all FREEDOM, both to men and women.

Resolving the Dystopia

While reading this book, many problems stood out to me, but there was one in particular that stood out the most. This problem was how women have no rights. This is due to the problem of sexual abuse; no one was allowed to think or even act out of intimacy in any way, other than to reproduce for other people in the community. The government believed that if women had no rights and their lives were being controlled all the time, then it would help with the desires of humans. In the book, the Commander is talking with Offred and he states, "'Was it really worth it, falling in love? Arranged marriages have always worked out just as well, if not better.'" This shows that people in the community aren't even allowed to fall in love, which goes back to the point that women had no rights. I believe that this needs to be fixed. One thing that would make the society better would be to give women their rights back. I understand that the government wanted to have a perfect and controlled society to ensure that safety of the people, but taking away their rights wasn't the way to do it. I believe that the world will never be perfect and it has never been perfect, but to make the society a fair and functioning society, we first need to ensure stability. To do this, I believe that there should be no discrimination, less crime, and everyone should mind their own business. This would ensure stability because everyone would be more focused on themselves rather than on other people. This would mean that no one would be picked on or pointed out for their appearance and people wouldn't be worried about crime as much.

"Resolving the Dystopia"

The problem that is found in “The Handmaid’s Tail” that makes it a dystopia is that the people of the society are not allowed to reproduce. They are not allowed to be sexual or think of sex in any way. This includes the things that are seen in everyday life, as seen by the surprised description of Offered when the commander lets her see the magazine he had. She was so surprised because she had not seen one in a very long time. This was also because things like this are forbidden in their society, things like reading and talking to people of the opposite sex. The problem is that they are not allowed to do these things and because of temptation people in the society end up breaking the law. The solution to this problem is to get rid of the laws that prevents them from being sexually active, tempted, and separated from their families. It would all be great if it was that simple but by removing the these laws another problem can arise. The new problem would be that everything would go out of control as seen by the actions that are being taken by Offred in the book when she becomes tempted even though she knows she has a husband. This is why I think we need a plan of preparation before the laws can be removed and new laws put into place. My plan is to first put the women that have the job of reproducing into therapy. This is because these women probably go through suffering or will end up suffering. The people of the society will then be placed with people of the opposite sex, for communication purposes. This way they are able to see each other as equal human beings instead of objects. After everyone starts to feel comfortable with each other they will be reunited with their families. Once they are all reunited and society see each other as what they are the plan will be completed. This is a process that might take a while for to resolve the problem but this is the best way of keeping a society like this sane.

Resolving the Dystopia

In The Handmaid's Tale, the dystopia expressed many different problems however the one that stuck out to me the most was the power expressed. Throughout the entire book the presence and manipulation of power from the leaders and higher ranked people within the society really shocked me. For example, the handmaid's are basically ordered and told how to run their everyday lives and what they can or can't do. Also, it is very obvious that the commanders and their wives are basically the ones that are running the society. This allows for anybody to be able to see who the leaders or influential people are within the government and society. The power that is expressed within this dystopia is very harsh and brutal because the people aren't allowed to leave their house without another person, they have to have guards and guns around all the time, they have no control other themselves or their decisions, and many more. Basically, the citizens have no rights for themselves, meaning that the only place they had any say or right was to themselves or in their head. However, the presence of intense power gave the citizens the desire to have their own rights and control within the society. For example, throughout the entire book it is seen that Offred was often manipulating her sexual power to affect the men in many ways, simply because she as a woman. This manipulation allowed for Offred to finally realize that she had power because the leaders needed something that only she, as a woman, could offer. In conclusion, the presence and manipulation of power had a very large impact on the characters and the dystopia as a whole.

What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society?

     I think that it is necessary to have a fair and unbiased society for it to function. This means that every citizen is given the same treatment, and to be held at the same expectation. This is not for only a specific group of people. This means for men, women, white, black, hispanic, any and everyone! In The Handmaid's Tale,  groups of citizens are each held at different expectations. The Marthas and Handmaids are expected to be obedient of the Commanders, and the Commanders are really not expected to do anything. The women in this society are very controlled, and this shows all throughout the book. For example, Handmaids were not allowed to be alone with the Commanders, without the fear of punishment. An example of this in the book would when Offred goes to her Commander's office late at night, and the entire time she was there, she was terrified that Serena, the Commander's wife, would catch her. If she had caught her, Offred could have been sent to the Colonies, even though nothing sexual or intimate was happening at all. Another example of the fear that women had in this book is when Moira was able to escape from this life. This caused an uproar among the citizen, yet if it were a man in her shoes, it would've been just another day.
     In some cases, I feel as if this is also shown in today's society. Women are held to different standards as men, and there are many ethnic stereotypes in the world, today. I think that fairness and equality is what is needed to have a good, and functioning society.

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society. ​

The central problem that The Handmaid’s Tale had was that the handmaids were not given the correct amount of rights and privileges. This society was created because of pollution and the inability to bear children, but the way the government handled it made it into a dystopia. I think that all of the problems in society would have been solved if everyone was given free will and the people were equal. This issue is seen in a small scale with the different types of people but mainly with the handmaids. The more important that you were, the more restrictions that you would receive. Although the Commanders were the highest in the society, they could do almost whatever they want. They had a lot of freedom but they were also burdened with the knowledge that their wife could not bare children and their children would never truly be their own. I think that this problem could be solved after many generations were born. Eventually, all the women in society would be able to have children so the need for a societal structure and the management of the handmaids would be unneeded. I think that the people could wait for this to happen or just let the handmaids do whatever they want give the people equal rights. If this wouldn’t work, I think that the government should be overthrown and the rebellious groups should form a societal structure that allows the people to make their own decisions, have relationships with whoever they want, and live wherever and with whoever they want.

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society.- Angel Patino

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society. 

I believe that the central problem at its core in "The Handmaid's Tail" is that women have little to no rights. I think that it was the result of the nuclear disaster that occurred. Which led to giving some women defects in which they could not have children. Therefore, nearly bringing the human race to extinction. So the government decides to take extreme measures to try to ensure the species does not fade from existence. The government decides to protect the few women that can reproduce, and those who cannot reproduce are meant to take care of those who can. At this point, women are only allowed to do the necessary things and are kept heavily guarded, as well as obtain identification with them at all times when the maneuver about the city. This means that they had less freedom and had to ask permission from a higher ranked official to do things. I believe there can be a way that this can be solved. I propose that the government of this society should allow these women to be able to maneuver the city with ease. In this case, it is important to maintain the human race alive by protecting the few women that can reproduce. However, it is important to keep a good and functioning society. In a fair and functioning society, everyone should have the liberty they need; they need to have rights. That is something these women do not have in that society. The government should focus on providing a safe environment for these individuals living in that society. They should focus their attention towards finding a treatment that would clear the environment so that t can go back to being a functioning society. In conclusion, the plan that I propose is to have the women who are not able to have children to become independent and be given the rights they deserve. As for the women that can produce, they must not be treated harshly and be allowed to make their own decisions. This is how I believe the society in "The Handmaid's Tail" can return to a fair and functioning society. 

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society.

In the Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood there is one main societal issue that caused the society to become a dystopia. The first of these is the expected roles that women are made to play in society. The role that the women have to play within society seems to start with biblical teachings. There are many different references made in the novel that women must have children for men and that is all they were made to do. If women in this dystopian society do not follow the rules and conform to their role, they get punished. The reason that women are supposed to be focused on giving birth is because many women were unable to carry a child. This problem lead to a decline in the birth rate. This problem causes women to have a large variety of their rights taken away from them. They begin to have to follow the rules of men who have authority over them. If I got the chance to fix this society, I would say that the best way would be to change how everyone views women and the different roles everyone plays. First, the women can start talking about the problems that they are faced with in society and each of them can get on the same page. They could remember the jobs and freedoms that they used to be allowed to have and how they want their freedoms again. Then they can address the men in their society about what they want to do to change their roles and how they are treated. Once everyone gets on the same page, the dystopia could then be changed.

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens. - Ray'Jhean O'Neal

I believe the government is in place for a reason, and they are to have control over the people to a certain extent. However, if the government is only self ruling, and do not take into account the opinions if the people who they are in charge of, then I believe they are not doing their job correctly. Their priority is to protect people, but people know what they want and what is best for themselves. I think the government should do this because they do not live the same life as the people, so they may not know what can and will not work. The government should come up with a policy that they think could work, then ask they people if they agree or have the people to vote on it. In The Handmaid's Tale,  the government did not ask its people if they approved of the new changes that were going to occur. The people were obviously unhappy and the government failed and became corrupt. If real life government were to do this, then our lives would be a dystopian society.  Now, we can vote on whether or not we think a new law should be passed. If that were to stop, I believe a lot of people will not be pleased. Revolutions occur because people do not agree with the government, but they would never happen if the government was fair and open to the opinions they get from the people who have to live through the changes.

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens. - Alesiah Ward

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens. - Alesiah Ward

My thought on this statement is that the governing body should be allowed to do what it takes to keep the citizens safe. For them to be able to do anything they want is wrong. In our days now I feel like they do what they want when they want. For example cities or towns go through things like no clean water because things that shouldn't be dumped near their houses are being dumped there. That type of situation puts the whole town in danger because dangerous chemicals is getting in the water. In the book none of those girls should have to be there if they choose not to. Most of the girls are getting brainwashed into thinking that everything they have to do is right when it's not. I would hate to be in Offred situation knowing that she does not have mother nor her daughter due to her society. The women literally do everything in secret and they are monitored it seems like all the time. For example in chapter 25 they talk about the handmaid's using butter for their hands and he technically laughs about which makes Offred upset. Citizens anywhere in the world should feel safe because we are leaving it all up to the governor body to insure that everything will be fine. Things should never get out of hand the way this dystopia is in Handmaids Tale and we should never get to a point (again) where anyone doesn't have rights to their freedom.

Describe the government of a perfect society. Explain your opinions.

I believe that each individual has their own opinions on what the government should look like in order to create a perfect society. In my opinion, a perfect society would include the government ensuring equal rights for everyone no matter their skin color, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, religion, etc. The government should put in place laws that make sure everyone is protected and has equal opportunity. This can be related back to the Handmaid's Tale because men and women in the dystopia do not have equal rights. Men and women both have different statuses throughout the community and they are made to live different stereotypical roles that are given to them. In a perfect society, the government also would not have all-consuming power over it's citizens. A good government is one that takes into consideration the people and society's needs. A democracy is for the people and by the people and would help in fostering the needs of the citizens. I also think that because so many people have so many different opinions, a democracy helps to show all different types of thinking and ideas. This kind of government and method of generating ideas would be helpful in the Handmaid's Tale because women could start to gain more freedoms than what they currently have. Governments can play a large role in how a society feels and how the citizens in this society act. I would hope that a perfect government would create a perfect society where everyone would just love and accept each other for who/what they are.

What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society?- Angel Patino

What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society?

In my opinion, I feel like there are various components of a functioning and fair society. In order to have a functioning and fair society, people need to be treated equally, and there would need to be no hate for one another. There needs to be unity between the people living in a society. Meaning, that they are working towards the same goal together. I think that in a functioning and fair society there is no government corruption or any corruption at all. I believe that in this type of society the power is given to the people as it was meant to be. I believe that in a functioning society people have the right to education, as well as be able to access equally the necessary resources needed for survival. If everyone has a good education, then that would benefit the government as well as the individual because they can get a good job with a good income and grow the economy. For a society to classify as being fair of course everyone needs to be able to access the necessary needs for survival, for there would be no starvation, and everyone would be healthy, and there would be little to no medical complications. A functioning and fair society needs to have people that are willing to cooperate with the changes to live in a fair and a functioning society. If there is no cooperation from a governing body or people living in that society there would be no way to move toward a functioning and fair society. Or to even if we were living in a functioning and fair society if there was no cooperation there would be no way to maintain it. 

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.

The quote “I think that this is what God must look like: an egg. The life of the moon may not be on the surface, but inside.” was made by Offred when pondering life over an oddly specific breakfast. This quote and its meaning really interested me because it is very hopeful and motivating. Although, Offred and the other handmaids have no valuable rights, she finds life and enjoyment internally. Not only does she find some sort of happiness internally, she thinks that god is an egg and its knowledge and happiness comes from within. It is weird to think about god as an egg or the moon as anything other than the moon but it is certainly something to think about. It is a possibility for there to be more than what is shown on the surface and that is seen through the handmaids, books, people, and everyday events. Everything in life isn’t black and white and this is what Offred is trying to explain.The intensity of this quote was almost surprising because throughout the book Offred was at peace with her situation and the world that she lived in and so I was not expecting this from her. When she stated that she was happy to the tourist it seemed that she was programed and brainwashed to be impersonal but as we go through the book, we can see otherwise. I have always sided and supported the underdog in stories and this quote makes me think that Offred will soon break free from the restraints of the government. The true meaning of anything is never on the surface and this quote expresses that.

Resolving the Dystopia

In The Handmaid’s Tale, the dystopia, also known as the Republic of Gilead, was created when women began to be treated wrong. They were being violated in multiple ways and when the pollution and chemical spills became too much, woman began to not be able to have children. During this whole time Gilead was slowly gaining power and when all of the pollution and chemical spills over whelmed the people, they completely took over. The central problem in The Handmaid’s Tale is how women are treated. They have no rights and their freedom was restricted. In Gilead, being a women means doing the job that was assigned to you or dying. Over all, no one is truly allowed to have emotions. In the book, the Commander says it himself, it is better to get married by arrangement rather than love. Emotions like love are not allowed to be felt because Gilead thinks it’s a waste of time and will only bring trouble to their control. A way that the dystopia could be solved is the “rebel” group known as Mayday. There are also other colonies that do not follow how Gilead governs, but it is very difficult for the people to get passed the boards and not get caught by the Eyes. The Maydays seem to be the only ones who have the guts to fight back. In the end of the book, I can assume that Nick arranges for the Maydays to take Offred out of Gilead by disguising themselves as the Eyes. If more people had the guts to smuggle others out of Gilead, Gilead would have less people to govern overtime. Though fighting may be a last resources for most, it seems like the only way out for the people of Gilead who don’t want to live that way anymore. The Maydays need to bring the old ways back. Make it so that women have their rights and freedom. Make it so that everyone can feel love and other emotions and not be punished for it.

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens.

Personally, I feel as though the government should not do whatever they feel is necessary to protect their citizens. For example, based on the book, The Handmaid's Tale, the government overrides any event that a woman tries to do. The government should be allowed to handle certain situations to an extent but they shouldn't take it too far. When the statement "too far" is used, it is describing how a person is treated and the way they live. Within the book, the women aren't allowed to have any feelings, consideration, or any type of ownership, self-value, or even self-worth. When the government takes away all of the power, worth, and value that any of the citizens have, then it gets to the point in which the government has too much control. Whenever the government gains way too much control, nothing will ever result in anything good. However, all of this depends on what the government's interpretation is regarding the protection of their citizens. For example, the government could keep a secret from their citizens so that uproar or upset wouldn't occur. On the other hand, the government starts to become unethical and untrustworthy when they start to work for themselves and what they think is right rather than the good of their people. In today's time and in the time during The Handmaid's Tale, I believe that the government should do everything they can to protect their citizens to an extent but once they abuse that right then the citizens have the right to fight for their rights too.

When is it best to conform to the wishes or rules of others? What problems are avoided when people conform? What new problems does conformity create?

I feel that there is no reason for why a person would only conform with someone just because they want to. There has to be something that they obtain or something that can affect them directly for that person to conform to something whether it may be positive or negative. An example of this would be in “The Handmaid’s Tail”, when Offred is told by Serena Joy, “I want to see as little of you as possible, she said. I expect you feel the same way about me”. Serena is not making an offer but instead making a demand that she expects to be followed. Offred, the main character, must conform with what she is told as Serena has power over her being the wife of the commander. If she does not conform than she could be punished and sent somewhere unknown to Offred but certain to be bad. So I think that the best time to conform to something is when it can affect you negatively or is to your benefit to comply. I feel like this can be placed into many aspects as it could also connect with a student who is doing badly in school. He or she may not want to put any work effort in their school work, but this could mean that if they do not conform with the work given to them, then they could ultimately end up failing a class and even a grade level. In addition, one must conform with things that may not favor us, but are for the good of that person whether or not they might see it. In Offred’s situation, she was able to avoid many problems like being sent to an unknown place where they could be punished or even killed in a society like this. Conforming could also lead to a different problem where if she conforms with a demand by Serena she could be breaking the law and face a bigger punishment. So one must conform when conforming is for you own good and will have more positive than negative.

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens.

I agree with this statement, but then again, I also disagree with this statement. I agree with this statement because sometimes the government makes decisions based on the safety of the citizens. At the same time, I disagree with this statement because I believe that the citizens should have a say in the government. This would prevent some of the problems that the book The Handmaid's Tale has in it. In the book, the author writes about how the women were slowly stripped of their rights. An example of this would be when the author states, "'I’m sorry', he said, 'but it’s the law. I really am sorry.' 'For what?' somebody said. 'I have to let you go', he said. 'It’s the law, I have to. I have to let you all go.'" This is an example because the government made this decision to let go any females in the workforce to protect them. This is not the only thing that the government took away from women. The government also took away their rights to have money because this would mean that women were allowed to go and make their own decisions about what to buy. The government in the book wanted to make sure that women didn't have many rights because they wanted to control them to protect them in a way. I guess it just depends on the situation that the government is making decisions on. I don't necessarily want the government to make decisions for me in some situations. I believe that in some cases, us citizens should be able to make our own decisions, especially when it comes to our own safety.

Describe the government of a perfect society. Explain your opinions.

In my opinion, there is no such thing as a perfect government. No matter what, there will always be problems with opinions, with it being corrupt, and lies. To me, a democratic government is the closest thing to a “perfect” society. I think that it is self evident that the citizens in democratic seem to be much happier than in other societies such as a communist, or Theocracy. I feel as if when the citizens of a society have a say in what they want, they feel more important and vital to the government. When the government tries to control their citizens, the people feel like their basic rights are being invaded, which makes rebellion more and more common. This is prevailed quite a bit in The Handmaid’s Tale. It is definitely uncommon to see a Handmaid, or Martha that is truly happy with the way that their life is going. There are also many flashbacks in the story that go to when Offred, the main character WAS happy. This was before the government had “taken her life away.” She dreams of the days that her, her daughter and Luke were together. She has memories of the days where she did not have to wear the long cloaks, with the wings around her face. She longs for that life to become once more. She also always contemplates certain decisions that she now has to make that may have been much different if the government did not have full control over her. This is typically not how the citizens of a democracy live. There are even people who come from other countries, with different governments, trying to live in the U.S because of their “ideal” democracy. To conclude, I think that out of all different governments, a democracy is the most relevant and plausible for a working, yet happy society.

When is it best to conform to the wishes or rules of others? What problems are avoided when people conform? What new problems does conformity create?

While in my opinion I think that it would be hard to conform the wishes of other and their rules. The reason why I Think This is because If you conform the rules or wishes of another person then someone else might not agree or might want her/his rules or wish to be conformed to. Problems that are avoided if you do confirm their rules or wishes are that they will not rebel against you, or the society. But my conforming someone else wishes and rules you can create a society where their is no rules or boundaries  meaning everyone will be able to do anything and everything if you conform their wishes. If you do it to one then you will have to do it to all or there will be serious problem.  Another thing that would be effected would be the authority the society would have no authority if its conforming everyone wishes. You can conform everyone wishes or rules because, they might effect the result in a negative way they might be the only ones benefiting from them and that will create again a disaster almost the society because you will have the ones that dont agree. So I dont think that conforming everyone rule or wishes would be right in a society, because in order for it to work everyone would have to be in the same page with the guy who is making the wish. In a way you might think that is good but in the long run conforming ever ones wishes and rules will destroy the society in the long run.

Choose a symbol that the author has created in the novel. What is the symbol, what does it represent, and why do you think the author incorporated it in his/her novel?

The author, Margaret Atwood, put multiple symbols throughout the whole book. Two symbols really stood out to me. One of the symbols was the handmaids had to wear the color red. The other symbol was the wings that the handmaid’s vail had that help cover their face. People in the dystopia were made to wear different colors that coordinated with their job/statues. I think the author made it so the hadmaids wore red because of the consequences they would have to pay if they did not complete their job. The author repeated it multiple times when Offred or other characters thought about a handmaid’s duty. Offred often thought, “We must do our job or die. It is what we signed up for”, except she would think of it in other words each time. Aside from symbolizing possible failor, the color red could also symbolize that handmaids are off limits to any man other than their “commander”. Margaret Atwood would write how Offred and/or other handmaids would taunt the soldiers/other men because they could only see, not touch. This occurred more in the beginning. The color red often means no or stop. The other symbol that stood out to me was the white wings that help cover the handmaid’s face. I think the author chose wings because of how she was going to make the story end. When thinking of wings, I think of being free to roam and do what you want because you can. It is hope. In a dystopia, you do not have the freedom to do what you want or feel what you want. The author may have wanted the reader to interpret the wings this way and wanted to foreshadow the hope that Offred would gain within herself. It could also be the hope and freedom that Offred wanted and tried to get.

Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society. ​

The societal issue in the The Handmaid's Tale is role of the women. It relates often with feminism, while living in a totalitarian environment. During the novel, their world suspense congress and implements a Christian Theocracy. The author often states biblical stories about women who bare the children for men. The women and men are seen for one specific job, which is to bare children. Margaret Atwood states several times in the book that the handmaid's job is to bare women, and when the disobeyed rules they were punished. Even though, the women who are able to bare children, are not held captive they still have a choice to choose to convert or leave to the colonies. The chemical and pollution are poisoning the population which is the first problem that contributes to their dystopia. The birth rate is plummeting, and only several women have the ability to carry a child. This leads to the role of feminism because the women no longer have rights of their own. They are controlled by the rules and the higher ranking individuals. The strict difference between the women is by the clothing they were and their duties in life; which can consist of being a wife of a commander or a handmaid. Therefore, this issue can be solved first by fixing the relationships and bonds between different people. The women in the novel have specific roles and are unable to talk to anyone around them. If women can learn to respect, understand, and relate to other women we can learn more about being a women. A women has many opportunities such as the ideal man. The author brings this issue up by stating the different jobs women once had. The major issues of being a women is barring children, rape, and fitting into society. They want to be extraordinary, not ordinary and they want to be able to choose their lifestyles. They are not wanting to be seen as a fertile womb for their oppressors, men. The way women treat each other can be fixed with respect and relating their problems by suggesting advice to grow. Once all women can respect each other then it may be possible that men will see the evolution of what once was their "ideal women". The respect and love, that Luke and Offred had can happen to others. Which in return will boost the fertility level. The next issue that needs to be fixed is the environment and the role it plays on society. The luxuries of fresh fruits, vegetables, or meats are taken for granted, as well as the health of future generations. The book stated that only one in four children are born healthy. I think that this problem can be solved by being observant to the industries that are being used for war materials, which produce chemicals and pollution. If Gilead takes a step back and focuses on the health of the people the needs of the nation will be met. Their will be no need for surveillance and a reason for people to not choose their lifestyle. Once government officials focus on the people they can fix the environment rather than forcing control where control is not needed. In fact, control is needed on how people treat each other and unnecessary war progression. With this being said, an overall plan can be derived to place a fair and functional government in Gilead. The book can transition of a dystopia by learning that difference of those around them is okay. It is okay that not everyone wants children, and they shouldn't be forced by religion to do so. The world is our oyster and everything in it is in our grasp. We deserve the freedom to learn in relationships, and to grow with others around us by differences. The world functions with differences. Which can eliminate the importance of war or a theocracy. When people learn the differences from each other they can impact the world greatly because change is occurring. Women and men have to learn that roles of gender don't mean anything if the world isn't taken care of. Therefore, I feel that with acceptance, peace can be found. Gilead can grow and provide an impact on other nations to understand acceptance rather than control. 

What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society? - Ray'Jhean O"Neal

One the necessary components of a functioning and fair society is freedom in many aspects of life. People need and want to have freedom of speech so they can speak what they believe, and people should have the freedom to make decisions on their own without a higher power telling them what they can and cannot do. Another component is differentiation. There should be no strict rules about the clothes you wear, where you live, and how you chose to live your life. Also, people should have the right to have ownership of different properties. The should have the right to have their own house, car(s), etc. If people have freedom of speech, decision making, and differentiation, that will allow the people to have a functioning society that will allow everyone to be happy. These things are not present within the society in The Handmaid's Tale. People are taken away from their freedom because they have to follow government rules or be killed. They are taken away from their differentiation because everyone wears the same clothes and have the same daily routine. People no longer have ownership because the characters were stripped from their homes and families. The people in the book are not happy with the lifestyle even though it is beginning to feel "normal" to them. However, it is known that they are not happy because where they live is made so that they will not be able to kill themselves, and some people end up finding ways to commit suicide.

What happens to “the individual” in a dystopia?

The individual in a dystopia is completely controlled by their government. The freedom they once knew is no longer given to them, and they are controlled by rules that are set for them. In fact, Offerd, begins to explain that she misses everyday life. The smell of nail polish, seeing her bedroom, and the flashbacks of being married and raising a child. This is taken from her, the happiness in life is no longer they. Which explains why she ventures out to her past during the day. In the book, it quotes that, "I drop my head and turn so that the white wings hide my face, and keep walking."  She is hidden from those around her because she is unable to have relationships of her own. Offred dresses conservative and is not able to shop without a pass to do so. The modern day role of a women is conservative. Furthermore, an individual in a dystopia is separated into a hierarchy which is shown from her relationships with the commanders. Offred stated in the book that, ""I did sit, on the edge of one of the stiff-backed chair. I didn't want to stare around the room, I didn't want to appear inattentive to her."  She is showing respect for the wife of the commander. Even though she was not held captive there Offred showed respect by not wondering around. The rules given to her had to be followed because she is controlled by the government in Gilead. Overall, the rules given to the individual change their daily behaviors because they become brainwashed to follow the government's orders.  

When is it best to conform to the wishes or rules of others? What problems are avoided when people conform? What new problems does conformity create?

I feel as though it is both a good and bad event when individuals conform to the rules and wishes of the others surrounding them. I feel as though it is acceptable to conform to the works and laws of others to a certain point. However, this point should not be crossed when it gets to the point of being the exact same as other people or you are not doing correct or acceptable things. Certain problems are avoided when conforming occurs, such as being different than everyone else, being ridiculed or having others not accept you or disapprove of who you are for standing out. Also, most times when you do stand out there could be some consequences that can occur if you don't make the correct decisions, which can result in the government stepping in and making the situation worse than if you were to have conformed to the rest of society. Although, not conforming allows for, at times, a higher self-respect and new discoveries of who you are as a person. It also allows for a sense of feeling unique and different than everyone else within the society. I feel that pride also has a very large thing to do with this because if you aren't okay with someone else telling you what you can and can't do then you are not one to conform. Each individual in society has conformed in one way or another, whether it's required or not. I feel that conforming is something that the individual should be allowed to choose on their own, however in some way or another they will be conforming with others through the way they dress, the music they listen to, the way they look, etc.

What happens to “the individual” in a dystopia?

     Typically, in a dystopia, the "individual" becomes a whole. The entire society is the individual, with only a few at the top, determined as the leaders. In The Handmaid's Tale, on the other hand, the "individual" is determined in a few categories; Handmaids, Marthas, The Commanders, etc. This is still very similar to the avergae dystopia because though there are more than one type of "individual," each category of individuals are  set up to function in the exact same way, and perform the same tasks.
     In The Handmaid's Tale, the Marthas and the Handmaids are treated on a much lower scale than the Commanders. As it shows in the name, the Commanders are pretty much at the highest ranking. Yet, this system is an interesting one. The societal hirearchy is determined by whether you are a sperm-producing husband, a woman who is able to become pregnant, or a woman whose tubes have been tied/not fertile. And yet, the women who are carrying the babies are treated the worst. These women are the Handmaids. They are not allowed to wear the clothes that they want, they are not allowed to live in their own home, and the most atrocious, they are not allowed to keep the baby that they have carried for nine months.
     This shows the similarities in most dystopian societies because of the fact that the citizens have lost almost all of what they once had, which is typically their right to live freely. This also shows in other dystopian societis such as, The Hunger Games, Divergent, and 1984. 

What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society?

I think that for a well functioning Society would be "Unity" meaning everyone on the same page and working for the same goal in their society. Another component would be no discrimination, because discrimination is a big problem that sometimes separates the society and if we want a fair society then no discrimination. Another fair society would be without crime no more robbery no more killing, or weapons. Without out any weapons or killing in the society their will be more peace, and less violent. And if their is more peace and safety people will be willing to work with others. We will have a calmer society and much fair. Another component would be free college  education for everyone creating a much free society because everyone will get a change to an education.   And if every one has a free education then when it comes to applying for a job everyone in the society will have a fair opportunity. Another thing will be transportation make sure that everyone in the society has some type of transportation. Making sure that everyone has a transportation will create a  fair society because we are giving everyone some type of transportation to go to their jobs and every one has an opportunity to go from place to place.  Another component to a free society would be technology making sure that everyone can accuse technology, making sure that everyone can accuse technology will also make the society fair but it will also make society stronger.

Describe the government of a perfect society. Explain your opinions.

I want to start of by saying that nothing in our world is perfect and there for a dystopia always has a bad ending because perfect is something that can not be accomplished. If original sin was not a problem and Adam and eve had not of been beat by temptation the world would still not have been a perfect world. This is because God gave everyone a conscience meaning that everyone can think and act based on their opinions and believes. So I think that the government of perfect societies are too ambitious as they are try to do something close to impossible as they would have to resolve every problem in the world to even make a perfect society. I think that it is evil to try and make a perfect world because to do that then one must derive all people of their conscience and change aspects of everything else in the world in order to reach perfection. Taking the conscience from everything would be taking what makes the unique and different. It is not right to do this and turn everyone into robots that do not make any of their own decisions. I feel like the government of a perfect world is not their to make the world perfect for the people but instead for themselves. I also think that they put no thought into making a society or world like this because there is no point in having something running which there is no point in running for, but might be to have overall power without disobedience. 

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.- Angel Patino

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.

The quote that I choose from the book was "I did sit, on the edge of one of the stiff-backed chair. I didn't want to stare around the room, I didn't want to appear inattentive to her." In this instance, she was talking to the wife of a higher power. She showed respect by  try not to let her eyes wander and make her seem suspicious."  This really stood out to me the most from the book because it is comparable to the society we have in place today. It is to show that in the society we have established today is that there is fear. We fear other people because of where they stand in society, because of their influence on society.  Fear to speak for one;'s personal feelings because of the fear of  a punishment. This has a very important value in "The Handmaid's Tail". The reason this has value in this book is because it is meant to explain to the audience what the society is like in the novel. It is meant to show what an individual in the novel is feeling towards the people who have set themselves at the top of the society they live in. The value it has to me is not huge. I think that it is just meant to show what type of society we have today as well as in the book, "The Handmaid's Tail". I just felt like this did a good job of showing that a dystopia that was written can relate to today. And this really does match both worlds.  This made me think deeply about today's society and see how in a bad state we are in. It made me realize that not everyone will speak for themselves. There will be some that are too scared, and do not want to risk any consquences. 

What is the one thing the writer makes you curious about? Why?

While reading this book, the author makes me curious about many things. The number one thing that the author makes me curious about is the backstory about how the world got to be the way that is is. As I am reading, I am slowly starting to understand, but I am still curious about why society has dramatically changed. In chapter twenty-eight, the director of the company in which the main chapter worked says, "'Not fired,' he said. 'Let go. You can’t work here any more, it’s the law.'" While reading this part, I wanted to know more about why it was against the law for women to have jobs. I want to know why women were treated with less respect than men. I am very curious about what the world was like before the dystopian world occurred and what made the world that way. Why are women nly god for baring children and if they can't bare children, why is that such a bad thing? In general, I am curious about the rights that women used to have and the rights that they have now. While I continue to read, I hope that the author explains in more detail about the past and what makes the present the way it is. I am curious about these things because I want to know more about the book and the past. I also would like to know the author's motives behind writing The Handmaid's Tale and why it has taken the author many chapters to start explaining the past.

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens.

The governing bodies best interest should always be keeping their inhabitants happy, safe, and healthy. Where keeping people healthy could restrict their happiness, it is vital for the progression of the civilization and humankind. The major issue I have with this statement is that the opinions of the government frequently clash with the citizen’s. In The Handmaid’s Tale, the handmaid’s lives are restricted to following orders and giving children to couples like Serena Joy and the Commander. Where the government wants to protect the population and give couples children, it sucks the joy and personalities from these women. On page sixty nine it is established that they cannot read from the Bible unless the Commander reads it to them. Where the government is pursuing rules that allow children to be born, they also restrict major parts of people’s lives. They take their “helping hand” too far and it causes a distinct hatred towards them. The government should be allowed to help the people see the best course of action but they shouldn’t be allowed to restrict anyone from doing something as simple as reading, owning their own clothes, and choosing what to eat. I think that voting and open conversations should and could be used to equalize the people and the government with major decisions that they have to make. If we were honest about the issues we have, the people would be okay with giving up some of our happiness at the sake of our health. The government can have an influential say in what the citizens should do to keep themselves healthy, but they have to be restricted somehow. Undefined and unlimited power could become dangerous and ruin lives, civilizations, and even countries.

What is the one thing the writer makes you curious about? Why? - Alesiah Ward

Throughout some chapters, the protagonist has flashbacks about a boy named Luke and her daughter that was taken from her. In chapter seven she remembers things like being in a dorm room, Good memories of being a child and being with her mom. She also remembers seeing this image of her daughter holding a ladies hand. Some of her memories or flashbacks are good but some are bad. Another memory is in chapter ten and twelve where she remembers how girls use to wear bathing suits to show skin. I am mostly curious about where her daughter is now. In chapter twelve she thinks about how her she really doesn't have any memories of her daughter and how she thinks that her daughter is dead. She has been brainwashed by “Aunt Lydia” because she says that they should not be attached to things and should let them go. When I think of her daughter that was stolen from her I immediately start to thinking “what if her daughter is becoming a handmaid”?. She has continuous flashbacks about her daughter because that is her own flesh and blood. Most mothers would hate to have their child taken away in such a painful time, so of course she will have the flashbacks. The protagonist also has many flashbacks about how Gilead was before all the rules and childbearing because they were the good days where they were all free. All of the things that I have mentioned deals with her flashbacks because obviously she likes to visit her memories due to her current situations.

Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens.

When I first read the statement that was given, I began to feel mixed emotions and I could not tell exactly how I felt about it. After reading it a few times over, I began to see more clearly how I felt about it. What I would like to say about this statement is that I disagree with it. I do not think that any governing body should be able to have enough power that they can do anything under the sun. I can understand how some may think that it would be good for the government to want to do anything to protect it's citizens. However, while I think that the motive of the government may be good, I do not think that one governing body is going to truly have everyone's best interest in mind. This can be connected back to the Handmaid's Tale because there are different roles for everyone (commanders, handmaids, etc.) Different roles in this dystopian society get treated differently. I feel as though there is differing amounts of freedom amongst the citizens, who have different roles, and I do not think that is fair. Even if the ulterior motive of what the governing body was trying to accomplish in the beginning was good, I do not think that the loss of freedom is a good thing that comes along with it. I do not think that I will ever be able to agree with this statement because when someone or some group is allowed to do anything, I believe that their power is going taken advantage of.

What is the one thing the writer makes you curious about? Why?

In The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood, the author, makes me curious of why she hasn't mentioned the main character's name. The author has mentioned other handmaid's names but not the main character's. Margaret Atwood has mentioned characters like Aunt Sara, Aunt Elizabeth,  Aunt Lydia, Alma, Janine, Dolores, Moira, and June. All within the first chapter, but not the main character's name. The author also mentions characters from the protagonist  past, like her husband, Luke. She also mentions her friend, Moira. Even the characters that dislike the handmaid are named. It really bothers me that the author has not named her yet. I know there is a better reason than suspense. I think that the author has not named the main character yet because handmaids are not thought of as a high class in the dystopia. Though other handmaids have been named, the main character is the one that will change others of her "kind" thoughts on how they are treated. Maybe the main character's name will stand as a symbol later on in the book. Like a rebel group or somewhere along those lines. It could also be that so far throughout the book, the main character does not and can not say what she thinks out loud. Therefore, what is the point of naming someone who does not have a voice? The character seems to think that she has no power in her “home”, which in her societies she does not, therefore the author has not named her yet until she makes the character feel alive again. There could be a million reasons of why Margaret Atwood has not named the main character yet, but those were just some of my thoughts.

Choose a symbol that the author has created in the novel. What is the symbol, what does it represent, and why do you think the author incorporated it in his/her novel?

In The Handmaid's Tale there is several symbols that are found in chapters one through twelve. For example, the most influential symbol in the book is the "torso". Which the narrator deeply talks about within chapter eleven. The discussion of Offred's torso begins with the doctor's inappropriate behavior. He talks to Offered when it is forbidden, and calls her names such as "honey". This represents the issue in which women aren't allowed to have feelings, or a true identity. During the book, the identity of the author shows a main importance for symbolism in the book. Offered states, "that the night is mine", or "There has to be some space, finally, that I claim is mine." From the very beginning, we see that the narrator is trying to provide a sense of ownership in a world that does not recognize these things. Her doctors visit is abnormal to modern day doctors visits. Offered has a sheet that hangs from the ceiling to hide her face; which provides a boundary of not being able to talk to the doctor. However, he continues to talk to her, and tries to importantly sway her to his services. He is full of lust and sympathy for her. The author provides this in the book because the torso deeply shows more into absorbing thoughts, ideas, and how the character supports himself. In fact, Offred, is short with the doctor. On page 53 Offred states, "It's too dangerous. I say. "No I can't. The penalty is death...". She has no control over her body, and what she wishes to do with it because of the possible punishments. The quote shows how the Gilead controls what the women do with their personal bodies. Overall, the symbolism of the torso is used to express to the readers that the man controls the women. The doctor has the power over her, and the author directly shows how she is violated without options of being able to speak her mind.

What happens to “the individual” in a dystopia? - Ray'Jhean O'Neal

When people are forced to conform to a dystopian society, they have options on how they can deal with it. The can grieve and mope, and practically kill themselves emotionally. They also have the option to accept their new life. A person can realize that life now as how it is going to remain, and the past is just the past.
No matter what, the person is constantly haunted by memories from their previous life. In The Handmaid's Tale, the main character says she randomly gets flashes of memories from the past. She says they are like dreams and if she does not know if what she imagines is true.However, she is astonished at the way she used to live because her life now seems normal, and her past seems unreal. She feels as if she is a new person, and I believe she is because her life was completely turned around. I believe in order to 'survive,' you must adapt to the new lifestyle and the people are forced to make that choice. This can be applied to real life as well. Our society today is different that what was in the past. Change is always occurring, whether good or bad. We must choose to adjust to it or we will be constantly unhappy in our lives, just like in dystopian societies. What you believe in may change, also. Just because you did not agree with an idea before, you may change your mind based on the society you live in.

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.

One quote from The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood that stood out to me was located in chapter 10. It is "Things, the word she used when whatever it stood for was too distasteful or filthy or horrible to pass her lips. A successful life for her was one that avoided things, excluded things." I decided to choose this quote because when I first saw it while reading, it spoke to me. After reading, I was left thinking about this. It reminded me of people who never get to live their life because they are scared of unfavorable outcomes that they may end up facing. Personally, I do not want to have any what-if's at the end of my life, and for some reason, even though the quote is talking about filthy things, I thought of people who were afraid to go out in the world and live. I have only began to read this book and I am around ten to eleven chapters in, so my idea of what I think the significance of this quote is to the book might be skewed. As of right now, I believe that the significance of the quote that I chose to The Handmaid's Tale relates back to how the main character is going to end up helping change her society. I believe when the quote mentions the bit about what a successful life entails, it shows the opposite of how the protagonist thinks. This links back to the story because it could be foreshadowing what the main character wants to do to justify her dystopia.

What is the one thing the writer makes you curious about? Why?

When reading this book towards the beginning the author just gives a detailed overview of the setting and basically what is going on. The maid or main character is in a world that has changed in the aspect of laws and believes, as it is designed in their mind to be the perfect world. There are many things that make this place a dystopia and they are the laws by which they are ruled and rights and wrongs that are in this world are described by the main character by explaining her situation and daily life. As she does this she basically gives a general description by saying "back then" but does not really explain why things have change into this type of dystopia for what I have read so far. I am curios as to what was the reason for the change in ways of society by rule of law. I am also curios about how the different people are chosen to do the different jobs. For example, there are the women that are not allowed to reproduce or even have a relationship and then there are those that their only job is to reproduce. I see that even though things have changed the people are not completely brainwashed as the main character is still able to remember a few things. I know this because she still gives her thought on her situation and the situation of the others. Even though she thinks about the past and how things have changed she is still acting like the rest and goes by the law by saying she is happy even though she only saying that because she does not want to brae the law and be defiant. The author is leaving many things unclear so there are many things that are left unanswered but hopefully that changes.

What happens to “the individual” in a dystopia?- Angel Patino

In the "Handmaid's Tale," the individual in the book is kept under surveillance and has little to no freedom for herself. The individual in the book has rules. The individual is allowed to roam the streets but she has to have a pass, as well as have a specific reason for leaving like groceries, etc. The individual character in the story has to demonstrate respect to those of higher ranking. An example from the text is, "I did sit, on the edge of one of the stiff-backed chair. I didn't want to stare around the room, I didn't want to appear inattentive to her." In this instance, she was talking to the wife of a higher power. She showed respect by  try not to let her eyes wander and make her seem suspicious. This is evidence that while the individual was not kept as a total prisoner she still had to show respect. She also had to follow rules, one of the rules was that she was to keep to herself and not show too much of her body as well as try to keep to herself by trying to keep away from the guys as she could.   Evidence from the text to support my claim is, "He takes a final puff of the cigarette, lets it drop to the driveway , and steps on it. He begins to whistle. Then he winks." And her response to this was "I drop my head and turn so that the white wings hide my face, and keep walking." Meaning that she had to be careful and could not seek relationships for she had her own rules to follow. The individual in this novel is not having the best of times based on the novel. The individual in this novel so far, there is nothing too drastic that has happened to the character that has impacted her dramatically. As of now she has introduced the audience to her lifestyle. 

What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society? - Alesiah Ward

In my opinion, the most important component of a functioning and fair society is freedom. Having freedom is important to me because I have freedom to do or say what I want without having to listen to a "higher power". But personally in this society now I don't think we have freedom as they say we do. Two other necessary components would be fairness and equality. In The Handmaid's Tale, the girls are forced to dress alike, act a certain way, never to talk to males, have forced labors, no freedom and more. While the males don't really have those type of rules in their society. The males are like the security of the society. They really can't touch the girls or socialize with the girls but that is only because they have to become a certain age and get permission to marry. In our society, we might not have the rules that they have in the book but girls are expected to act and behave in a certain way based off our society today. Back then for example in churches girls had to wear long skirts that went to their ankles and then they could wear skirts that came to their knees. Some churches or certain religions are still like that but some have become less strict. In the 21st-century schools, girls can't even wear tank tops because they think that it may be appealing to guys.

What factors and/or situations combined to create your book’s dystopia? Why and how did the society evolve into a dystopia? How could it have been prevented from becoming a dystopia?What message (or warning) do you think the author is trying to send to our current society?

The situation or factor that all together created the book's dystopia is the ultimate value of life. Throughout the beginning of the book it is seen that only certain people are allowed to conceive children. For example, when Offred was shopping she noticed that Janine, her old friend, was pregnant and everyone within the store was jealous of her pregnancy. The job of the handmaids are to specifically only bear children from the commander, whereas the commander's wife or the martha's aren't allowed to give birth. The book also describes how the doctors who previously completed abortions were persecuted and hung on the "wall" for their punishment. It is understood that the reasoning was because of the abortions because each body has a picture of a fetus hanging from their neck. Also, Offred wasn't worried about her husband when she saw all of the hanging bodies because she knew that her husband wasn't a doctor so he wouldn't be able to do that horrid task. I feel as though the fact that lives of all sizes or ages matter through the society and it is seen as a major crime if someone were to take that away. For example, that is why all of the doctors that took away lives were hung and they set aside women to only be allowed to bring life into this world as the only thing that they are allowed to do. The author is trying to send the message that we need should be undervaluing life or taking it for granted.

What aspects of a dystopia does our current society have? Do these characteristics have the potential to expand? What should be done to stop it?

I think one major societal problem of this age, and the previous ages is the way society views women. Though women have come a long way throughout the century, there are still stereotyping, a pay cut, and a general "rule" of how women should act. There have become many movements to spark a change, but have they really worked? There have been many instances where women have prominently stood out, rebelled, and it worked. These include Susan B. Anthony, Rosa Parks, Mother Teresa, Eleanor Roosevelt, Malala Yousafzai, Michelle Obama, Sophia Bush, and many more. After so many years of women not having the rights that they deserve, it is hard to push for a complete change. There have not only been good changes with this, though. From the perspective of a teenage girl in the 21st century, I constantly hear, women jokes, women remarks, and I see the complications of it. I have even seen a Twitter account mainly directed towards “meninists.” It completely mocks the feminist view, and turns it into a complete joke. I think that it is constantly becoming more and more of a joke to many men (definitely not all!), so much to a point that it may become worse than it started. I think to stop it, what women want the most should be given; to have equality through everything. This would not only mean through the things that would benefit them, but through all things. Women are not trying to become superior, they are trying to become equal, and that is what they are trying to prove.

What is one thing the writer makes you curious About? Why?

While I was reading the first few chapters of the book I came across a point in which made me as the reader very curious.  It was when the pregnant lady walks in the store and everyone is looking at her and then they say " She is closer to death" which got me to thinking what happens to the lady after they are done giving birth do they just leave or do they kill them.Also they say that she is a show of because she is pregnant and doesn't have to do the shopping, this makes me wonder about the society and what happens to those girls that cant have babies, what do they do to them ? Since being pregnant is a good thing what happens to those who cant?  Another think that I am very curios about is Luke. Luke is a character that the author talks about, I wonder what Luke is to her because she mention how they were going to buy a house, have kids. Is Luke her lover that she left behind or is Luke someone she has fallen in love with during this process?  I wonder if later on in the book we will meet Luke and see why the author mentions him through the story, and what he means to the author. I feel like this book is full of mysteries and it makes me curious about lots of things, right from the beginning. Other then that I am enjoying this book more then I thought I would of.

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.

While reading this book, there were many quotes that were brought to my attention, but one quote in particular stood out to me. This quote was, "Beside the main gateway there are six more bodies hanging, by the necks, their hands tied in front of them, their heads in white bags tipped sideways onto their shoulders." While reading this part, I pictured this in my head and it has stuck with me. Later on, she goes on to say, "We’re supposed to look: this is what they are there for, hanging on the Wall." This shows that the government wants to control or brainwash their citizens by scaring them and showing them what could happen to them if they didn't follow the rules. I chose this quote because it caused the most emotion from me. While reading about this part in the book, it reminded me of when we read Night and Elie Weasel talked about his experience with watching people get hanged. The leaders hanged people for different reasons, but the main reason was to let other know that they were in control now. The same goes for The Handmaid's Tale because the leaders wanted to show their authority over the citizens. This shows that in this dystopian world, the leaders want to enforce their beliefs and their laws on everyone, which can be compared to a dictatorship. They don't want people to have their own "brains" in a sense because this would allow them to think for themselves, so they brainwashed people into believing that this world is normal, when is reality it is not. These quotes allow the reader to understand the government more. It allows the reader to understand that the government has strict rules and regulations about how people should live their life's based on ages, genders, etc.. I am really enjoying this book right now and hope to soon find out the backstory for what caused their world to be flipped around.

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.

The quote that stood out to me the most so far is, "Are they happy? How can they be happy?" It was a question the main character asked herself when tourist ask her if SHE was happy. This quote really stood out to me because the main character is so reserved and caught up in her world that she does not know much of other's happiness. The tourist who asked her if she was happy does not know about what their "happiness" is either. Both people live in such different worlds. What is normal and happy in Gilead, the handmaid's home, is considered odd in Japan, where the tourist were from. Everyone has their own version of happiness. Things that make them feel joy and laugh but those things could make others feel sad. It all deals with interpretation. Another reason the quote stood out to me is because the handmaid responds that she is very happy yet thinks, "I have to say something. What else can I say?" Her following thoughts after her response indicate that she is not sure whether she is actually happy or not. It sounds more like she didn't know what else to respond and was afraid that if she said she wasn't happy she would get into trouble. Up to this point, the handmaid recalls many things before she had to become a handmaid. She remembers and misses the freedom she had as a child but does not speak out loud of her thought. It seems as if she has convinced herself that she is happy in Gilead where she can't even look many people in the eye. She has fooled herself to be content, just as many people do in the present real world.

What happens to “the individual” in the dystopia?

The individual in The handmaid’s Tale has been stripped of her rights, life and family. Offered once had a husband and a daughter, they had freedom and love. After the disruption of the United States, she was separated from her family and sent to an old high school where she was trained to be a handmade. She, among the other women who are still fertile, were sentenced to a life of giving birth for couples called commanders. She is taught to waste not and want not. She is restricted from normal accessories such as alcohol, cigarettes, and coffee. Her life is restricted to buying food for her foster couple, trying to hide from spies called “eyes”, and trying to bare a child. She is forced to follow strict, undignifying rules that force her to always walk with a partner, only speak when talking to, and do what one is told. Without knowledge of her past friends, family, and mother, she is forced to make friendly acquaintances wherever she could. She is forced to a red ensemble and white wings that stamps her of her occupation. She has frequent flashbacks of her friend and husband which explain the events leading up to her current life. On page thirty one, a tourist asks her and her walking partner if they are happy and she says yes. Her constant restriction of “freedom to” has brainwashed her that she is receiving “freedom from”. Although she has no personal belongings, she finds happiness in small defiance and thoughts. Her memories of past life and family haunt her and the readers. As the young girl prepares for a life of horror, she learns of a defiant group called “May day” and gains little hope. The individual of this story is in a unique situation that has no easy escape.

Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.

"They haven’t fiddled with the gravestones, or the church either. It’s only the more recent history that offends them." was stated in The Handmaid's Tale. While reading this book, this quote stood out to me because it reminds me of what our parents say now. I think that this generation is more troubled than past generations are used too. While reading the book, Offered, is unable to look at society and she keeps to herself. Often times, she described the sweet smell of nail polish and how a name of a store is too much temptation for women. In the book, socitey has reversed the women's roles. As you see, the generations of this book and generations now are complete opposite. This quote is expressing that they are not upset with past generations. For the fact that, women used to be to themselves, their homes, and left outside lives to their spouse. In modern society, now women are able to be involved in business, politics, and they are able to express themselves. However, in chapter five, Offred and Ofglen are astonished by the japanese women who show their legs and wear high heels. To ourselves, we think, that this is offending women because their rights of self-expression has been taken away. It allows our socitey to value the small things that makes a woman.This is why this quote makes me think a lot about our generation. Women are free like birds, but these girls are not. Which is why history is offended because the women role has changed drastically. Overall, the women's roles throughout this book open the eyes of this generation to see how far the roles of women have drastically changed. 

Welcome to the Blog!

As you read The Handmaid's Tale, you will engage with the text and communicate with your peers through blogging. For each blog, write an entry of at least 250 words. Use a different prompt for each entry EXCEPT FOR POST 4. For post 4, all of you will respond to the same prompt. 

Make sure your writing is organized, grammatically correct, and engaging to your reader. In each entry, combine specific textual references with personal analysis. You should use specific aspects of the text like quotes or events as a springboard for analytical thinking. 

Prompts for Posts 1-3:

• What factors and/or situations combined to create your book’s dystopia? Why and how did the society evolve into a dystopia? How could it have been prevented from becoming a dystopia?What message (or warning) do you think the author is trying to send to our current society?
• What aspects of a dystopia does our current society have? Do these characteristics have the potential to expand? What should be done to stop it? Use aspects of your novel to support the points that you make.
• What is the one thing the writer makes you curious about? Why?
• How is the protagonist changing? What is s/he learning about life and the role s/he plays in it?
• What happens to “the individual” in a dystopia?
• Choose a quote from the book that really speaks or stands out to you. Explain why you chose it, its value in the book, and its value to you.
• Choose a symbol that the author has created in the novel. What is the symbol, what does it represent, and why do you think the author incorporated it in his/her novel?
• To what extent can technology violate individual freedoms?
• When is it best to conform to the wishes or rules of others? What problems are avoided when people conform? What new problems does conformity create?
• What are the necessary components of a functioning and fair society?
• Describe the government of a perfect society. Explain your opinions.
• Express your thoughts to the following statement: The governing body should be allowed to do whatever they feel is necessary to protect its citizens.

Prompt for Post 4:

• Each novel has a problem in its core societal framework that has caused it to become a dystopia. What is the central problem in your novel that needs solving in order to resolve the dystopia that has been created? Next, solve the problem. Determine a plan for how the society in your book can transition from the present dystopia to a functional and fair society.