Margret Atwood Techniques

Question 1

Narrative Structure:

Answer 1

• First person perspective.
• Flashbacks and present-day events.
• Fragmented and non-linear narrative.

Question 2

Symbolism:

Answer 2

• The colour red=blood and fertility.
• Eyes=subservieve and control.

Question 3

Imagery:

Answer 3

• Vivid descriptions.
• Oppressive environment. “The Wall”/ sterile oppressive settings.

Question 4

Irony:

Answer 4

• Offred’s thoughts contrast her reality. (Rebellions and resistance)

Question 5

Foreshadowing:

Answer 5

• Hints future events, the escape plan is hinted throughout the story.

Question 6

Allusion:

Answer 6

• Historical events and figures, the bible and ancient regimes, connect Gilead and real-world totalitarian systems.

Question 7

Diction:

Answer 7

• Formal and controlled language=reflects the control of Gilead.
• Offred’s private thoughts often use more informal, emotional language.

Question 8

Juxtaposition:

Answer 8

• Contrast between Gilead’s rules and the freedom of Offred’s memories.
• Fantasies represent the human desire for freedom.

Question 9

Repetition:

Answer 9

• The Latin Phrase=Repeated throughout to represent freedom and resistance.

Question 10

Metaphor:

Answer 10

• Gilead itself is often described as a “prison”.
• The Handmaids are like “vessels” or “cattle”.

Question 11

Paradox:

Answer 11

• Tension between control and freedom, as well as individual power versus powerlessness.