Journal Six
Offred tells the story from her perspective. This offers the readers a look not only into the world of Gilead but a portal into the inter-workings of a woman oppressed by this patriarchal dystopia. The reader learns the most about Offred from her flashbacks to pre-Gilead society. Because Offred knows very little about the structure of her society, the story takes on a mysterious aspect. Atwood uses Offred to force a emotional empathy for the oppressed women on behalf of the reader. It also allows Atwood to delve into the relationships, past and present, of Offred, that reveal more about the functions of society more so than simple description would allow. There is a level of trust established between the reader and Offred. She is easily empathized with due to her ignorance and humanity. Her honesty within her mind, that is only revealed to the reader, creates a very intimate connection between the reader and Offred. Atwood is revealing the power and the beauty of the female psyche as well as the danger of persecution. Only a persecuted woman could emphasize Atwood's purpose.
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