Wednesday, November 2, 2011

HMT 2

Page 43

More than be at the front of a chapter, I believe Margaret Atwood attempts to place greater importance of developing the book in this chapter. Page 43 begins by talking about the June weather upon them along with how Offred would get ice cream cones. Abruptly however, she immediately begins discussing the Wall and the fact that there were 3 new bodies. This contrast helps us understand the speed at which the change of the United States to The Republic of Gilead occurred. Then Offred tells that it is a priest and 2 men killed for gender treachery. The description of the setting not only shows Offred's seemingly passive nature to people who are murdered provides characterization but also develops the plot by revealing previous details. Atwood uses chronology and context, "still wearing the black cassock. Thats been put on him" to better understand how Gilead came to be the way it is. When its revealed that Offred believes she always has to ask to go back characterization of Ofglen aswell as Offred is provided. Ofglen's reluctance to want to go back shows some mental occupation with what she's looking at but as stated we don't know weather she is "mourning or gloating". On the other hand this decision seems to make Offred appear as though she is only observing, not really having an opinion even though we can hear her thoughts.

For each significant point, state significant follow with a colon, identify the specific aspect (characterization, setting, technique...), follow with a short explanation.

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