What is wrong with Mrs. Lawrence in “The Handmaid’s Tale”? This question arises as readers delve into the intricate and chilling world of Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel. Mrs. Lawrence, a seemingly benevolent figure in the oppressive society of Gilead, masks her true intentions and harbors secrets that contribute to the novel’s unsettling atmosphere.
In the novel, Gilead is a totalitarian regime that has stripped women of their rights and reduced them to the status of property. Mrs. Lawrence, a member of the privileged elite, appears to be a loyalist to the regime. However, her actions and the underlying motives behind them raise questions about her true nature and allegiances.
One of the most concerning aspects of Mrs. Lawrence’s character is her role in the reproductive process. As a wife and mother, she is expected to bear children for the state. Despite her initial reluctance, she eventually submits to this demand, which seems to be a sign of her compliance with Gilead’s rules. However, Mrs. Lawrence’s compliance is not without its consequences. Her decision to bear children for the state ultimately leads to the birth of a daughter, Offred, who becomes a handmaid and is forced to bear children for other couples in the regime.
Moreover, Mrs. Lawrence’s role in Offred’s life is fraught with moral ambiguity. Initially, she appears to be a caring and protective figure, offering Offred advice and support. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that Mrs. Lawrence’s actions are driven by a desire to maintain her own status and power within the oppressive society. Her relationship with Offred is complex, as she is both a benefactor and a potential threat.
Another aspect of Mrs. Lawrence’s character that raises questions is her complicity in the regime’s atrocities. While she may not be directly responsible for the horrors of Gilead, her passive acceptance of the regime’s policies and her willingness to participate in the reproductive process suggest that she is, at the very least, complicit in the suffering of others.
In conclusion, what is wrong with Mrs. Lawrence in “The Handmaid’s Tale” is her moral ambiguity and the extent to which she is willing to compromise her values and humanity for the sake of her own survival and status within the oppressive society of Gilead. Her character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind loyalty and the consequences of succumbing to a totalitarian regime. As readers reflect on Mrs. Lawrence’s actions, they are reminded of the importance of standing up against injustice and the need to preserve one’s moral integrity, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
