LANGUAGE AS A SIGN OF POWER IN THE HANDMAIDʼS TALE

Abstract

A language which seems to be an ordinary tool of communication can have a very critical and interesting role to shape the individuality and mentality of a person. The Handmaids’ Tale beautifully shows different ways in which language can manipulate humans’ minds and make them behave obediently. Power is not a simple process in which orders are clearly given and in which individuals can always recognize the powerful forces. Sometimes, the power that is everywhere needs to penetrate any aspect of individual life secretly and in a hidden way. One of these hidden ways is through language. By showing the power of language, Margaret Atwood becomes a strict critique of societies in which individuality is undermined.