Worksheet on Offred from The Handmaid's Tale
English
Grade 6
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet covering the character Offred from The Handmaid's Tale, focusing on comprehension, analysis, and thematic connections to mythology. Designed for Grade 6 students to enhance understanding of literary techniques and themes.
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Worksheet on Offred from The Handmaid's Tale
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 6
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 6
A
Introduction to Offred
In Margaret Atwood's novel, The Handmaid's Tale, Offred is a woman living in a dystopian society where women are stripped of their rights. Her character is shaped by her past memories and her current struggles to survive. The narrative often reflects themes of control, rebellion, and mythological symbolism, such as references to Greek mythology and heroism. Offred's story is intertwined with her longing for freedom and identity, echoing mythic tales of heroes and goddesses who face adversity. Her experiences evoke the mythological themes of sacrifice, resistance, and the quest for self-knowledge. The novel uses sparse dialogue and reflective narration to deepen the reader's understanding of her inner thoughts and the oppressive world she inhabits. Key phrases such as 'They put their hands on her' and 'Nolite te bastardes carborundorum' hint at resistance and resilience, drawing parallels with mythic figures who challenge gods or tyrants.
1.
What is the main setting of the story described in the summary?
[2 marks]2.
Describe how Offred's feelings about her situation are reflected through mythological symbolism.
[3 marks]B
Literary Techniques in Offred's Narrative
The narrative employs sparse dialogue and introspective narration, using phrases like 'They put their hands on her' to evoke a sense of control and violation. The phrase 'Nolite te bastardes carborundorum,' a mock Latin phrase, symbolizes resistance and echoes mythological stories of defiance against tyranny. The novel also uses imagery of captivity and longing, which reflect mythic notions of exile and hero's journey. Such techniques serve to deepen the reader's understanding of Offred’s internal struggles and the oppressive environment she endures.
1.
Identify one literary device used in the passage and explain its purpose.
[3 marks]2.
What effect does the sparse dialogue have on the reader's perception of Offred's world?
[2 marks]C
Mythology and Symbolism
Throughout the novel, references to Greek mythology and mythic archetypes are evident. Offred's struggle for freedom mirrors the hero’s journey, with moments of exile, resistance, and hope. The phrase 'Nolite te bastardes carborundorum' echoes mythological tales of defiance against divine or oppressive powers. The society’s control over women resembles the mythic portrayal of gods punishing mortals or chasing after power, emphasizing themes of sacrifice and resilience.
1.
Explain how Offred's story reflects the archetype of the hero's journey.
[4 marks]2.
Identify a mythological phrase or symbol mentioned in the summary and explain its significance.
[3 marks]D
Creative Response
Write a short story inspired by Offred's experiences, incorporating at least two mythological references or symbols. Use the checklist below to guide your writing.
1.
Creative Writing Prompt: Write a short myth-inspired story about a character facing adversity and seeking freedom. Include at least two mythological symbols or references.
2.
Checklist for your story:
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet