Handmaids vs. Leviathan

Attribute	Handmaids	Leviathan
Author	Margaret Atwood	Thomas Hobbes
Genre	Dystopian fiction	Political philosophy
Themes	Gender oppression, totalitarianism	Social contract, sovereignty
Setting	Future society called Gilead	Conceptual state of nature
Main Characters	Offred, Serena Joy, The Commander	The Leviathan (metaphorical)

Introduction

When comparing Margaret Atwood's novel "The Handmaid's Tale" and Thomas Hobbes' political treatise "Leviathan," it becomes evident that both works explore themes of power, control, and societal structure. While one is a work of fiction set in a dystopian future and the other is a philosophical text on governance, there are striking similarities in the attributes of Handmaids and Leviathan that can be analyzed and compared.

Role in Society

In "The Handmaid's Tale," Handmaids are women who are assigned to bear children for the ruling class in a society where fertility rates have plummeted. They are stripped of their autonomy and treated as mere vessels for reproduction. Similarly, in "Leviathan," the Leviathan is a metaphorical figure representing the absolute power of the state. It is described as a sovereign entity that holds authority over its subjects, much like the Handmaids are subject to the authority of the ruling class in Atwood's novel.

Control and Surveillance

Both Handmaids and the Leviathan are characterized by the control and surveillance imposed upon them. Handmaids in Gilead are constantly monitored and regulated by the Aunts and the Eyes, ensuring that they adhere to the strict rules of the society. Similarly, the Leviathan exercises control over its subjects through laws and regulations, maintaining order and preventing chaos. The surveillance and control mechanisms in both works highlight the oppressive nature of the systems in place.

Symbolism and Representation

Handmaids in "The Handmaid's Tale" serve as symbols of female subjugation and the loss of agency. They are reduced to their reproductive functions and denied basic rights and freedoms. On the other hand, the Leviathan in Hobbes' work symbolizes the power and authority of the state, representing the need for a strong central government to maintain order and prevent anarchy. Both Handmaids and the Leviathan serve as powerful symbols that reflect the themes and messages of their respective works.

Resistance and Rebellion

Despite their oppressive circumstances, both Handmaids and the Leviathan face resistance and rebellion from those who seek to challenge the status quo. In "The Handmaid's Tale," Offred and other Handmaids engage in acts of defiance and resistance against the regime, risking their lives to reclaim their autonomy. Similarly, in "Leviathan," Hobbes discusses the concept of the social contract and the right of individuals to rebel against a tyrannical government. The themes of resistance and rebellion are central to both works, highlighting the human desire for freedom and autonomy.

Conclusion

While "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Leviathan" may seem like vastly different works on the surface, a closer examination reveals the shared attributes of Handmaids and the Leviathan. Both serve as symbols of power, control, and resistance, embodying the complex dynamics of society and governance. By comparing and contrasting these two entities, we gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed in these influential works of literature and philosophy.