Symbol analysis

In The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood uses allusions, especially Biblical allusions, to portray how corrupt the city of Gilead is. Ofglen is another handmaid, Offred's friend. She strongly apposes the ways of society, and silently rebels, and eventually gets discovered. Because the guards knew she held the secrets, they were after her. The way Ofglen reacts alludes to the Biblical scene when Jesus sacrificed himself on the cross to save everyone. Ofglen, by hanging herself, saved the rest of the handmaid's from the torture and suffering they'd endure, such as those in Jesus' time. By using Biblical allusions, Atwood creates satire throughout the novel. Gilead considers themselves to be a strong, faithful society. However, it is apparent that it is in truth not a society of faith at all. Instead, the entire society is solely political. It shows that woman are just used for their bodies, and their fertility. If they remain agreeable, they will be allowed to live their lifeless life. However, if they disobey such as Ofglen did, they will face dire consequences that will be shared with others who wear the same dress as her.