The Bond Between Handmaids

The Handmaid's Tale

The fragile solidarity and suspicion among the Handmaids, exemplified by Offred and Ofglen.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Shopping PartnerThe Shopping Partner from "The Handmaid's Tale". The Shopping Partner The First Walks Offred and Ofglen walk together, exchanging formal greetings. They are spies for each other.
The Shopping Partner The First Walks Offred and Ofglen walk together, exchanging formal greetings. They are spies for each other. Offred suspects Ofglen is a true believer. The Trust Over time, they become more comfortable. Ofglen speaks first. They develop a routine. The bond is cautious. The Revelation Ofglen reveals she is part of Mayday. Offred is excited. They have crossed the line together. The bond becomes real.
The SolidarityThe Solidarity from "The Handmaid's Tale". The Solidarity The Birth Day At the Birth, the Handmaids chant together. They hold hands. They are one. The experience bonds them.
The Solidarity The Birth Day At the Birth, the Handmaids chant together. They hold hands. They are one. The experience bonds them. The Particicution Ofglen acts to save the political prisoner from suffering. Offred is shocked but understands. The bond is tested. The Loss Ofglen's suicide leaves Offred alone. The new Ofglen is a threat. The solidarity is broken.
early in the story
during the Birth Day and Salvaging