What’s Wrong with Mrs. Lawrence in The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale, written by Margaret Atwood, is a dystopian novel that explores the dangers of a totalitarian society. Within this harrowing narrative, the character of Mrs. Lawrence plays a significant yet controversial role. What’s wrong with Mrs. Lawrence, and why does her character elicit such a mix of admiration and criticism?
Firstly, Mrs. Lawrence is depicted as a strong and resilient woman who manages to navigate the oppressive regime. However, her actions and beliefs raise questions about the morality of her choices. One of the primary issues with Mrs. Lawrence is her complicity in the oppressive system. Despite her initial resistance, she eventually adapts to the new reality, often participating in cruel and dehumanizing acts. This raises ethical concerns, as her character seems to prioritize her survival and comfort over the well-being of others.
Furthermore, Mrs. Lawrence’s character is marked by a lack of moral clarity. While she claims to be fighting for the greater good, her actions often contradict her professed beliefs. For instance, she supports the reproductive program but fails to question the fundamental injustice of forcing women to bear children for others. This moral ambiguity makes it difficult for readers to fully endorse her choices, leaving them to question whether her actions are truly justified.
Another aspect of Mrs. Lawrence’s character that raises concerns is her blind loyalty to her family. She seems willing to go to great lengths to protect her husband and children, often at the expense of other victims of the regime. This blind loyalty can be seen as a form of self-deception, as she may be prioritizing her own family’s interests over the broader struggle for justice and equality.
Moreover, Mrs. Lawrence’s character is somewhat one-dimensional, which contributes to the confusion surrounding her actions. Her motivations are not fully explored, and her character development is limited. This lack of depth makes it difficult for readers to understand her complex relationship with the oppressive regime and the true extent of her moral compromises.
In conclusion, what’s wrong with Mrs. Lawrence in The Handmaid’s Tale is her moral ambiguity, complicity in the oppressive system, and blind loyalty to her family. These qualities make her a controversial character, as readers are left to grapple with the ethical implications of her actions. While some may admire her resilience and resourcefulness, others may question whether her choices are truly justified in the face of such a brutal regime. The complexity of Mrs. Lawrence’s character serves as a poignant reminder of the difficult moral choices that arise in times of extreme oppression.
