Chapter 34
English Lit: Edexcel A Level The Handmaid's Tale, topic 2.12.4
Chapter 34 - Summary and Key Quotations
In the Prayvaganza, arranged marriages happen between daughters and Angels. These are soldiers who fought in the war.
Commander's speech
- As a part of the ceremony, a Commander makes a speech about how Gilead is a much safer and better society for women.
- This makes Offred think back to a meeting with her Commander when he asked for her personal opinion on how society had been created.
- Offred says that they "left out love" in the construction of Gilead. The Commander argues that society is much more efficient and safer for women.
Ofglen knows about meetings
- After the Prayvaganza, Ofglen lets Offred know that she is aware of her meetings with the Commander.
- She urges her to use this opportunity to find out as much information as she can for the May-Day resistance group.
Key quotations
- "Hard not to be impressed, but I make an effort"
- Offred tries to keep her mental freedom. She resists giving in to the regime by mocking it in her head.
- There is a Balm in Gilead"
- Traditional hymn, referencing Christ's power to heal.
- "There is a bomb in Gilead"
- Moira mocks the violence the Gilead forces use for control by punning this phrase.
Key quotations (cont.)
- "What did we overlook? Love, I said"
- Atwood's prime message: humans need love for their well-being.
- "Just don't move"
- Women are not meant to enjoy sex in Gilead.
- "Something powerful in the whispering of obscenities"
- Taboo language is powerful because is shocks. Moira is right to suggest that language can be used to undermine those in power.
Test yourself on Chapter 34
What does Moira change the hymnal phrase "there is a Balm in Gilead" to?