The Handmaid's Tale: Chapters 4-6

Offred goes to the market, and she must be accompanied by another handmaid. This aspect reflects the sense of protectiveness over women in the new society. A war is taking place against those who represent the values that are held today, as the book mentions the conquering of a group of "rebel baptists." Guardians are introduced as the men who are unfit for the military, whether too young or too old. This aspect of the new society reminds me of Sparta. Anyone who is able to serve in the military must, and those who are not capable must serve another purpose which will benefit society. The name of the republic, The Republic of Gilead, is given. As more details are given as to the measures taken to protect women, I am reminded of the conditions African slaves lived in, as women are not allowed to read. A wall is set apart in the town, on which the bodies of those who oppose the new republic are hanged, resembling a practice often done as a warning to snakes.

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