The Iron Fist of Discipline: Examining the Role of the Disciplinary Woman in Margaret Atwood's Handmaid's Tale

For many readers of Margaret Atwood's Handmaid's Tale, the character of Aunt Lydia stands out as a particularly memorable and disturbing figure. Throughout the novel, Aunt Lydia is presented as the driving force behind Gilead's brutal system of discipline, using both physical violence and psychological manipulation to maintain control over the handmaids. In this article, we will examine the role of the disciplinary woman in Atwood's novel, using Aunt Lydia as a case study to explore the complex dynamics of power and oppression that underpin Gilead's regime.At the heart of Aunt Lydia's character is the notion of discipline as a tool of social control. Through her actions, we see how the women in positions of power in Gilead have internalized the logic of the regime, using the threat of punishment to keep others in line. Aunt Lydia's methods of discipline are especially notable for their extreme violence, including mutilation and even death. Yet, as we will argue, there is more to Aunt Lydia than meets the eye - her role in the regime is as much a product of her own history and psychology as it is a result of her position in society.Throughout the course of the article, we will consider the ways in which gender, power, and trauma intersect in Handmaid's Tale, and the complex and often ambivalent responses that readers may have to Aunt Lydia as a character. Ultimately, we will argue that the role of the disciplinary woman occupies a crucial place in the political and psychological landscape of the novel, shedding light on the ways in which individuals can be both oppressors and victims within systems of oppression. Whether you are a fan of Atwood's work or simply interested in the role of discipline and power in society, this article promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of one of the most compelling characters in contemporary literature.

Introduction

Discipline is an integral part of society, and it is enforced by both men and women. However, in Margaret Atwood's Handmaid's Tale, the role of women in enforcing discipline is examined. This article delves into the ways in which the disciplinary woman is depicted in the novel and looks at the comparisons between different characters.

The Character of Aunt Lydia

Aunt Lydia is one of the most significant characters in the novel concerning the enforcement of discipline. She is responsible for the training of the handmaids and ensuring they are fully immersed in the system. Lydia's ruthless approach to discipline is exemplified when she uses physical force to deter disobedient behaviour. Her willingness to justify the brutal methods employed to uphold discipline brings out the darker side of the Gilead regime.

Comparison Between Offred and Aunt Lydia

Offred is the protagonist of the novel and must face disciplinary actions such as the threat of being sent to the colonies. However, as a handmaid, her role is to bear children, so she is not expected to enforce discipline like Aunt Lydia. Furthermore, Offred believes that the coercive methods employed by Lydia are counterproductive as they do not bring about obedience. The contrast in their approaches to discipline shows how different characters react to imposing measures of control.

Janine's Trauma

Janine is another character in the novel who faces disciplinary action, and despite her trauma, she still proves to be loyal to the regime. As a result, she receives privileges that come with obedience, including receiving better food and living conditions. Janine's character shows how discipline can compel individuals to comply with an oppressive regime, even when they have directly suffered from its harsh policies.

Corrupting Force of Power

Moreover, the corrupting influence of power is illuminated in the role of the disciplinary woman. Having authority over others can result in individuals succumbing to their worst impulses. This is evident in the character of Serena Joy, who, after being stripped of her autonomy, finds solace in exercising her control over Offred. She becomes an accomplice to the system that oppresses her and asserts her power over someone she has power over.

Comparison between Aunt Lydia and Serena Joy

While Aunt Lydia and Serena Joy fulfill different roles in the novel, their approach to discipline is similar. Both are willing to use their power and influence to maintain the state's oppressive system, recognizing that rebellion cannot be condoned under any circumstance. The difference between the two characters is that Aunt Lydia assumes her position willingly, while Serena Joy is a victim of the same regime she now upholds.

The Role of Moira

Moira is a former handmaid who resists the regime's disciplinary measures and even goes to great lengths to escape their grasp. Her resistance is an indication that discipline is not absolute and that individuals can fight against it when necessary. Moira's defiance gives hope that despite the rigid structures of society, there are still people who are willing to resist and challenge the status quo.

Ambiguity Surrounding Discipline

The novel illustrates how discipline can be ambiguous at times, highlighting the differences in interpretation and application across different groups. For example, Aunt Lydia's coercive measures with the handmaids are brutal, but they are tolerated by the regime. Conversely, when Offred fails to follow strict bedtimes, she is punished. This process shows how discipline can be interpreted narrowly and highlights how individual interpretations of the rules can vary significantly.

Conclusion

The Handmaid's Tale can make readers uncomfortable as the novel offers an indictment of authoritarian society. Nevertheless, examining the role of a disciplinary woman reveals the complexities and ambiguities surrounding discipline in society. The disciplinary woman is depicted as both victim and perpetrator, with Atwood calling attention to the often-repressed dimensions of power dynamics that occur between women.

Opinion:

The Handmaid's Tale shows that discipline is part of society, but it also highlights how it can be abused by individuals in power. It is essential to consider the long-term effects of such measures and recognize that resistance can bring change. Although the novel shows how ingrained oppression can become, it equally illustrates how hope exists in the willingness to resist and push back against restrictive societal norms.

Character	Role	Approach to Discipline
Aunt Lydia	Train handmaids	Ruthless, justifies brutal methods
Offred	Bear children	Believes coercion is counterproductive
Janine	Handmaid who faces disciplinary action	Complies despite experiencing trauma
Serena Joy	Wife of Commander	Exercises control over Offred
Moira	Former handmaid who resist the regime	Defies authority

Thank you for joining me in this exploration of the disciplinary woman's role in Margaret Atwood's masterpiece, The Handmaid's Tale. As we have seen, female characters such as Aunt Lydia and Serena Joy serve as examples of how women can be both oppressors and oppressed in Gilead's rigid society.

We have also examined how these women represent different aspects of patriarchal power, with Aunt Lydia embodying the violence and coercion necessary to maintain control, and Serena Joy representing the ways in which women can be complicit in their own subjugation. Through their actions and words, we see how discipline and punishment are used to enforce the regime's rules and crush any resistance.

Ultimately, by examining the complex roles of discipline and power in The Handmaid's Tale, we can gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in societies that uphold patriarchal norms. We must continue to question and challenge these norms if we hope to create a more just and equitable world for all.

People also ask about The Iron Fist of Discipline: Examining the Role of the Disciplinary Woman in Margaret Atwood's Handmaid's Tale:

What is the role of the disciplinary woman in Margaret Atwood's Handmaid's Tale?

The role of the disciplinary woman is to enforce the rules and regulations of the oppressive regime on the women, particularly the handmaids, in Gilead. They are responsible for punishing any disobedience or rebellion against the system.

Who is the most prominent disciplinary woman in the novel?

The most prominent disciplinary woman in the novel is Aunt Lydia. She is in charge of the re-education of the handmaids and is known for her harsh methods of discipline.

What is the significance of the disciplinary woman in the novel?

The disciplinary woman represents the power of the patriarchy and the lengths they will go to maintain control over women's bodies and reproductive capacities. It also highlights the complicity of some women in upholding oppressive systems.

How does the portrayal of the disciplinary woman contribute to the overall themes of the novel?

The portrayal of the disciplinary woman emphasizes the themes of oppression, control, and resistance. It shows how even women who are not in positions of power can be complicit in upholding oppressive systems and how resistance can take many forms.

What message does Atwood convey through the character of the disciplinary woman?

Through the character of the disciplinary woman, Atwood conveys the message that women can be both victims and oppressors in patriarchal societies. It also highlights the importance of solidarity and resistance in fighting against oppressive systems.