The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian novel written by Margaret Atwood, which was later adapted into a TV series. The story is set in the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian state that has taken over the United States. In this society, women are stripped of ther rights, and a religious fundamentalist regime controls every aspect of their lives.
One of the most frequently used phrases in The Handmaid’s Tale is “May the Lord Open.” This phrase is used by the Commander, the ruling class of Gilead, when he opens the Bible during the Ceremony, a monthly ritual in which the Handmaid is forced to have sex with the Commander in order to bear a child for his infertile wife.
The phrase “May the Lord Open” has a religious connotation, suggesting that the Commander is seeking divine guidance before engaging in sexual activity with the Handmaid. The phrase is also meant to encourage fertility, as the Handmaid’s primary purpose in Gilead is to produce children.
However, the phrase can also be interpreted in a more sinister manner. It suggests that the Commander, with the backing of Gilead’s religious leaders, believes that he has the right to control the reproductive choices of women. By invoking the name of God, he justifies his actions and reinforces his power over the Handmaid.
The use of “May the Lord Open” highlights the themes of religious fundamentalism and patriarchy present in The Handmaid’s Tale. It demonstrates how religion can be manipulated to justify oppressive practices and how men can use their power to control women’s bodies.
The phrase “May the Lord Open” is a significant aspect of The Handmaid’s Tale, representing both the religious and oppressive elements of Gilead society. It highlights the dangers of religious fundamentalism and the importance of reproductive freedom for women.
How Do You Respond To May The Lord Open?
It is typically responded to with the phrase “Praise Be”, which is another common phrase in the same society and is used to express gratitude or thanks for something. This response is meant to encourage fertility among the Handmaids, who are valued for their ability to bear children in a society where fertility rates have drastically declined.
What Are The Sayings On Handmaids Tale?
The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood that features several sayings that are unique to the fictional society of Gilead. These sayings are used by the characters in the book to communicate with each other and express their beliefs. Some of the most commonly used sayings in the book include:
– “Under His Eye”: This sayig is used as a greeting or farewell and implies that the society’s god is always watching. It is a reminder to the characters that they must always be on their best behavior and follow the rules.
– “Blessed Be the Fruit”: This saying is used as a way to wish someone well, particularly when it comes to childbirth. It is a reminder of the importance of fertility in Gilead’s society.
– “May the Lord Open”: This saying is often used in conjunction with “Blessed Be the Fruit” and is a prayer for the success of a pregnancy. It is also a reminder that the characters are at the mercy of their god.
– “Praise Be”: This saying is used as a way to express gratitude or appreciation for something. It is often used in religious contexts, but can also be used in more general situations.
– “Nolite te bastardes carborundorum”: This phrase is Latin and translates to “Don’t let the bastards grind you down.” It is a rebellious saying that is often used as a way to inspire hope and resistance against the oppressive society of Gilead.
– “We’ve Been Sent Good Weather”: This saying is used as a way to express gratitude for something positive that has happened. It is a reminder to the characters that even in a bleak society, there are still moments of beauty and joy.
These sayings help to create a unique and unsettling atmosphere in The Handmaid’s Tale, and they serve as a reminder of the power of language in shaping a society’s beliefs and values.
Why Do They Say Under His Eye?
In the dystopian society of Gilead depicted in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, the phrase “under his eye” is a common greeting used by its inhabitants. The phrase has a dual meaning in this context. Firstly, it is intended to convey the idea that the person speaking is under God’s constant watchful gaze and protection. This is in keeping with the religious fundamentalism that forms the basis of Gilead’s social order.
Secondly, the use of the phrase by women to each othr in particular takes on a different meaning. In the oppressive and patriarchal society of Gilead, women are constantly monitored and controlled by men. The phrase “under his eye” is a reminder of this fact and serves as a subtle warning to other women to be careful of their actions and speech. It is a way of reinforcing the power dynamics of the society and maintaining the status quo.
What Do The Greetings In Handmaids Tale Mean?
In Margaret Atwood’s novel “The Handmaid’s Tale,” the typical greeting for a Handmaid in the dystopian society of Gilead is “Blessed be the fruit.” This phrase is a reference to encouraging fertility, as the Handmaids are assigned to bear children for the ruling class. The phrase also has Biblical ties, as fruitfulness is a common theme throughout the Bible. The greeting serves as a reminder of the Handmaid’s purpose and reinforces their role in society.
Conclusion
“May the Lord Open” is a phrase commonly used in the dystopian society of Gilead in Margaret Atwood’s novel, The Handmaid’s Tale. It is a prayer-like phrase that is said in hopes of encouraging fertility amng the Handmaids. It also serves as a reminder to the people of Gilead that their future is not in their own hands, but in the hands of their chosen god. By using this phrase, the people of Gilead express their faith and belief in their religion, which plays a significant role in their society. “May the Lord Open” is a powerful phrase that reflects the values and beliefs of the people of Gilead and the importance of religion in their lives.
