Symbolism In The Handmaids

"They are, after all, empty. When they are old they turn themselves inside out, then explode slowly, the petals thrown away like shards" ( Atwood 45).
In the novel, the tulips somewhat symbolize the handmaid 's. Atwood is referring to how the handmaids have become empty. She might mean empty as not pregnant or referring to their mental state of loneliness and despair. The tulips explode slowly which mirrors how the Handmaids are dying slowly and suffering under Gilead 's rule and commanders. Atwood might be criticizing how some men are suppressing women around the world.
" She held her own hands out to us, the ancient gesture was both an offering and invitation, to come forward, into an embrace, an acceptance" (Atwood 47).
Through this image, Aunt Lydia symbolizes a priest, prophet or the Christ holding his hands to people and inviting them to his beliefs. Atwood is making a connection between Gilead and its religious base.
" I called it mine" ( Atwood 49).
Why did she call the room hers? This is an interesting line. she called the room hers to give herself possession over the room and feel that she still owns something and still have a value. She gave herself the power of possession which she lacks. Why was the commander in her room? I think he was looking for Offred for a certain reason. Maybe he wanted to satisfy his lust or just spy over
However, Aunt Lydia only recited the first part which supports Gilead 's ideology. This reflects on Gilead 's ruling system which uses and distorts biblical verses to support their motives in controlling the Handmaids. The original verse suggests that pure women will rise against their suppressors, but Gilead only picks the part that suits it ideas. This also shows us how Gilead uses language to control the Handmaid 's. Atwood might be reflecting on how in today 's world some groups alter religious facts to control