Historical Context for The Handmaid's Tale

Who was he?

What is he known for? Some of his memorable policies?

Why do you think Atwood may have been inspired by this historical figure when writing The Handmaid’s Tale?

What is Puritanism?

• behavior or beliefs that are based on strict moral or religious principles; esp. principle that people should avoid physical pleasures

• belief system that supports agnosticism and a hierarchy of religious ideals

• behavior that aligns with freedom of thought, knowledge, and a spirit of enlightenment

• WITCHES!

What happened during the Salem Witch Trials?

Why do you think Atwood may have been inspired by the Salem Witch Trials when writing The Handmaid’s Tale?

What happened during the Iranian Revolution? Who was Khomeini?

What exactly is the ERA? Was/Is it ratified? Who were the people fighting for and against it?

Who is the author of The Handmaid's Tale?

What is speculative fiction?