What is wrong with Mrs. Lawrence in “The Handmaid’s Tale”? This question has intrigued readers since the publication of Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel in 1985. Mrs. Lawrence, a character who appears late in the story, plays a pivotal role in challenging the oppressive regime of Gilead. However, her actions and motivations raise several questions about her true intentions and the potential flaws within her character. This article aims to explore the complexities of Mrs. Lawrence’s character and the underlying issues that make her a controversial figure in “The Handmaid’s Tale.”
In “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Mrs. Lawrence is introduced as a member of the privileged class in Gilead, a totalitarian society that has overthrown the United States. She is a Handmaid’s Commander, which means she has a Handmaid, Offred, under her control. Initially, Mrs. Lawrence appears to be a loyalist, supporting the oppressive regime and benefiting from its privileges. However, as the story progresses, she begins to question her beliefs and the morality of the society she lives in.
One of the main issues with Mrs. Lawrence is her inconsistency in her actions and beliefs. While she initially supports the regime, she later becomes a vocal critic of its policies. This inconsistency creates a sense of uncertainty about her true intentions. Is she genuinely concerned about the welfare of others, or is she merely manipulating the system to her advantage? This ambiguity makes it difficult for readers to fully trust her character.
Another problem with Mrs. Lawrence is her relationship with Offred. Initially, Mrs. Lawrence treats Offred with disdain and as a mere possession. However, as the story unfolds, she begins to show a more complex relationship with her Handmaid. This shift raises questions about Mrs. Lawrence’s true feelings and whether she is genuinely capable of change. Is her newfound compassion genuine, or is it merely a facade to gain Offred’s trust? This uncertainty adds to the complexity of Mrs. Lawrence’s character.
Furthermore, Mrs. Lawrence’s role in the resistance movement raises questions about her loyalty. While she claims to be working against the regime, her actions are often questionable. She seems to prioritize her own safety and well-being over the greater good, which raises concerns about her commitment to the cause. Is she genuinely fighting for the liberation of women, or is she merely using the resistance as a means to an end? This ambiguity makes it difficult to determine Mrs. Lawrence’s true intentions.
Lastly, Mrs. Lawrence’s character is problematic due to her portrayal of privilege and the elite class in Gilead. While she initially appears to be a loyalist, her actions and decisions often reflect the inherent flaws of the privileged class. This portrayal can be seen as a criticism of the elite’s tendency to prioritize their own interests over the welfare of the general population. By presenting Mrs. Lawrence as a flawed character, Atwood challenges the readers to question the nature of power and the responsibilities that come with it.
In conclusion, what is wrong with Mrs. Lawrence in “The Handmaid’s Tale” is her inconsistency, questionable loyalty, and the inherent flaws of her character. While she initially appears to be a loyalist, her actions and decisions raise several questions about her true intentions and the potential flaws within her character. By exploring these complexities, Atwood challenges readers to question the nature of power, loyalty, and the responsibilities that come with being part of the elite class in a dystopian society.
