“ The Handmaid’s Tale ” is a popular show that is based off of a dystopian society which has had continued discussion among the media and viewing populations because of it’s unique story elements.
Themes and Dystopian Elements
The show follows themes related to gender inequality, religious fanaticism and oppression using strong visual tools. It explores a future society with social hierarchies as a commentary on both power, abuse and the struggle for personal freedom which resonates strongly for viewers.
Setting in Gilead
The Republic of Gilead serves as the stage for much of the action showing an extreme patriarchal government who takes total control and places women into specific roles in society with an extreme hierarchical perspective. In Gilead all power rests in the hands of the powerful men with all other elements of society being placed beneath.
Parallels to Contemporary Culture
“The Handmaid’s Tale” is considered as an alarming reflection on issues within current events. Issues such as loss of individual rights are explored as women are completely under the control of government rule with all their power stripped from them.
Oppression and Gender Roles
The show forces its viewership to confront how specific beliefs are used to oppress and justify the complete removal of female autonomy. Many say the show presents a warning on how easily power and government control can get out of balance creating such an environment of oppression.
Characters and Symbolism
The women that are seen throughout the series act as different types of responses to a dystopian way of life, and those roles range from submissive to rebellious. Symbols are carefully used in costuming like the infamous handmaid red color of a robe and a stark contrast to the sterile clothing of the elite women. All forms of elements tell an intricate and powerful story about all who participate.
Offred and Serena Joy
Of particular note are the complex relationship with Offred whose story and character arc highlights an individual fighting for their identity along with freedom. This character highlights resilience when there are so many challenges while Serena is also showcased as an example of how those who seem powerful may not be as free as they seem.
Cultural References and Inspiration
The television show “The Handmaids Tale” brings to mind popular historical fashion moments as shown in the actions by certain public figures and can reference historical figures as a point to remember the context of human history. There was mention of a first daughter's red carpet appearance drawing from the same place of design as this shows use of costumes as a subtle method for visual references to stories throughout human history.
Audrey Hepburn and Power of Visuals
The influence of fashion from Audrey Hepburn comes through the Givenchy dresses showing how styles from popular figures and characters such as in Sabrina. These type of choices become subtle yet extremely powerful and memorable during specific scenes that are displayed both from this iconic actress to the dystopian world.
Fan Interaction and Real-World Parallels
“The Handmaid's Tale” has built up large fan involvement which also has helped generate more thought processes about contemporary life through art and culture. It also shows that the way a viewer sees a show is important as they may relate what they are seeing to all forms of culture. This allows the themes to be relevant and continue to be debated which may create new conversations.
Discussions on the Show's Messages
Many discussions that take place relate to social commentary as well as how to use modern television to speak to current situations in order to offer a new perspective to all areas of life from oppression, gender and cultural views. These ongoing conversation add value to both the show and to the importance of keeping conversation about certain events alive and relevant in a meaningful way.
Key Takeaways
- “The Handmaid's Tale” explores the ideas of gender inequality in a dystopian format using extreme methods for power and control.
- The series’ story reflects on contemporary issues using relatable characters and symbolic imagery to amplify the themes.
- The visuals in the story reference previous eras and notable styles with the intent to create a story line with familiarity while showing elements that can shock viewers.
- Viewers relate the dystopian aspects of the show with modern struggles creating conversations on power structure and autonomy.
- The shows elements such as visual style, characters and deep meanings create both conversation and social awareness that allow viewers to consider larger aspects of their environment.