The Testaments By Margaret Atwood

The Ardua Hall Holograph

Only dead people are allowed to have statues, but I have been given

one while still alive. Already I am petrified.

This statue was a small token of appreciation for my many

contributions, said the citation, which was read out by Aunt Vidala.

She’d been assigned the task by our superiors, and was far from

appreciative. I thanked her with as much modesty as I could

summon, then pulled the rope that released the cloth drape

shrouding me; it billowed to the ground, and there I stood. We don’t

do cheering here at Ardua Hall, but there was some discreet

clapping. I inclined my head in a nod.

My statue is larger than life, as statues tend to be, and shows me as

younger, slimmer, and in better shape than I’ve been for some time. I

am standing straight, shoulders back, my lips curved into a firm but

benevolent smile. My eyes are fixed on some cosmic point of

reference understood to represent my idealism, my unflinching

commitment to duty, my determination to move forward despite all

obstacles. Not that anything in the sky would be visible to my statue,

placed as it is in a morose cluster of trees and shrubs beside the

footpath running in front of Ardua Hall. We Aunts must not be too

presumptuous, even in stone.

Clutching my left hand is a girl of seven or eight, gazing up at me

with trusting eyes. My right hand rests on the head of a woman

crouched at my side, her hair veiled, her eyes upturned in an

expression that could be read as either craven or grateful—one of our

Handmaids—and behind me is one of my Pearl Girls, ready to set out

on her missionary work. Hanging from a belt around my waist is my

Taser. This weapon reminds me of my failings: had I been more

effective, I would not have needed such an implement. The

persuasion in my voice would have been enough.

As a group of statuary it’s not a great success: too crowded. I would

have preferred more emphasis on myself. But at least I look sane. It

could well have been otherwise, as the elderly sculptress—a true

believer since deceased—had a tendency to confer bulging eyes on

her subjects as a sign of their pious fervour. Her bust of Aunt Helena

looks rabid, that of Aunt Vidala is hyperthyroid, and that of Aunt

Elizabeth appears ready to explode.

At the unveiling the sculptress was nervous. Was her rendition of

me sufficiently flattering? Did I approve of it? Would I be seen to

approve? I toyed with the idea of frowning as the sheet came off, but

thought better of it: I am not without compassion. “Very lifelike,” I

said.

That was nine years ago. Since then my statue has weathered:

pigeons have decorated me, moss has sprouted in my damper

crevices. Votaries have taken to leaving offerings at my feet: eggs for

fertility, oranges to suggest the fullness of pregnancy, croissants to

reference the moon. I ignore the breadstuffs—usually they have been

rained on—but pocket the oranges. Oranges are so refreshing.

—

I write these words in my private sanctum within the library of Ardua

Hall—one of the few libraries remaining after the enthusiastic book-

burnings that have been going on across our land. The corrupt and

blood-smeared fingerprints of the past must be wiped away to create

a clean space for the morally pure generation that is surely about to

arrive. Such is the theory.

But among these bloody fingerprints are those made by ourselves,

and these can’t be wiped away so easily. Over the years I’ve buried a

lot of bones; now I’m inclined to dig them up again—if only for your

Overview

The Testaments by Margaret Atwood

The Testaments, a sequel to The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, explores themes of power, resistance, and identity in a dystopian society. Set in the oppressive regime of Gilead, the narrative unfolds through the perspectives of three women: Aunt Lydia, a high-ranking enforcer of Gilead's laws; Agnes, a young woman raised within the regime; and Daisy, a rebellious teenager from Canada. This novel delves into their struggles against the totalitarian state and their quest for freedom. Fans of Atwood's work and readers interested in feminist literature will find this gripping tale both thought-provoking and relevant. The Testaments was published in 2019 and has received critical acclaim for its exploration of contemporary issues through a speculative lens. Key Points E…

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FAQs of The Testaments by Margaret Atwood

What are the main themes of The Testaments?

The Testaments explores several key themes, including power dynamics, the nature of resistance, and the complexities of identity within a repressive regime. Through the experiences of its three protagonists, the novel examines how individuals navigate and challenge the patriarchal structures of Gilead. The narrative also highlights the importance of storytelling and memory in the fight against oppression, as the characters confront their pasts and envision their futures.

Who are the main characters in The Testaments?

The Testaments features three central characters: Aunt Lydia, a high-ranking official in Gilead who grapples with her complicity in the regime; Agnes, a young woman raised in Gilead who begins to question her upbringing; and Daisy, a Canadian teenager who becomes embroiled in the fight against Gilead's oppressive system. Each character offers a unique perspective on the challenges of living under a totalitarian regime and their journeys toward self-discovery and empowerment.

How does The Testaments connect to The Handmaid's Tale?

The Testaments serves as a direct sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, expanding on the world Atwood created in her earlier novel. It revisits familiar themes and settings while introducing new characters and perspectives. The narrative provides insights into the inner workings of Gilead and the fates of characters from the original story, offering readers a deeper understanding of the regime's impact on women's lives and the ongoing struggle for autonomy.

What is the significance of Aunt Lydia's character in The Testaments?

Aunt Lydia is a complex character in The Testaments, representing both the enforcer of Gilead's laws and a survivor of its oppressive system. Her perspective reveals the moral ambiguities faced by those in power and the sacrifices made to maintain control. Throughout the novel, Aunt Lydia's internal conflicts and strategic maneuvering illustrate the intricate dynamics of power and resistance, making her a pivotal figure in the narrative.

What role does storytelling play in The Testaments?

Storytelling is a central motif in The Testaments, serving as a means of resistance and a way to reclaim agency. The characters use their narratives to assert their identities and challenge the oppressive structures of Gilead. Through their voices, Atwood emphasizes the importance of preserving history and memory, suggesting that storytelling can empower individuals and foster connections in the face of tyranny.

What is the setting of The Testaments?

The Testaments is set primarily in the dystopian society of Gilead, a totalitarian regime that has overthrown the United States government. The novel explores various locations within Gilead, including the oppressive environments of the Aunts' training facilities and the homes of Commanders. Additionally, it contrasts Gilead with the outside world, particularly Canada, highlighting the stark differences in freedom and autonomy between the two societies.

What critical reception did The Testaments receive?

The Testaments received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in 2019, winning the Booker Prize and being praised for its timely exploration of themes relevant to contemporary society. Critics highlighted Atwood's skillful storytelling and character development, noting how the novel resonates with current discussions about women's rights and authoritarianism. Readers appreciated the depth and complexity of the narrative, which successfully builds on the legacy of The Handmaid's Tale.