QQuestionOther Subjects
QuestionOther Subjects
What surgery did they perform on Emily in "The Handmaid's Tale"?
6 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1In Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale", Emily (also known as Ofglen) underwent a forced female genital mutilation procedure called an infibulation, which was a form of punishment for her homosexuality in the oppressive Gilead regime.
Specifically, she was subjected to a clitoridectomy (surgical removal of the clitoris) as a means of suppressing her sexual identity and reproductive autonomy. This brutal procedure was designed to remove her sexual pleasure and agency, reflecting the novel's themes of bodily control and oppression of women. The surgery was performed as a form of state-sanctioned sexual violence, intended to break her spirit and force compliance with Gilead's strict patriarchal and heteronormative rules.
Final Answer
Specifically, she was subjected to a clitoridectomy (surgical removal of the clitoris) as a means of suppressing her sexual identity and reproductive autonomy. This brutal procedure was designed to remove her sexual pleasure and agency, reflecting the novel's themes of bodily control and oppression of women. The surgery was performed as a form of state-sanctioned sexual violence, intended to break her spirit and force compliance with Gilead's strict patriarchal and heteronormative rules.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students