Oppression is a central theme in The Handmaid's Tale, where the totalitarian regime of Gilead subjugates women, stripping them of rights and autonomy. The novel explores how societal structures enforce this oppression, using fear and manipulation to maintain control. Through the experiences of Offred and other characters, the story reveals the pervasive nature of oppression and the struggle for personal freedom within a repressive system.

Daylight in Gilead symbolizes the constant surveillance and control exerted over individuals. Offred and other women are watched by "the eyes," a symbol of the regime's omnipresent authority. Public executions and punishments serve as stark reminders of the consequences of defiance, reinforcing the oppressive social order. In contrast, night offers a temporary escape from this scrutiny, allowing Offred moments of reflection and rebellion against the patriarchal system.

"Now, said Moira. You don't need to paint your face, it's only me. What's your paper on? I just did one on date rape."

This quote highlights Moira's defiance and awareness of male oppression, contrasting with the enforced submission of the handmaids.

The relationship between Offred and Serena Joy illustrates how women can be complicit in the oppression of others. Serena Joy, despite her limited power, uses Offred to fulfill her own desires for a child, exploiting the system to her advantage. This dynamic underscores the internalized oppression within Gilead, where women are pitted against each other to maintain the status quo. Offred's compliance with Serena's manipulations reflects her struggle for survival in a society that dehumanizes her.

Comparisons with other dystopian works, like Orwell's 1984, emphasize the theme of oppressive control. Both novels depict regimes that manipulate and dominate their citizens, erasing personal freedoms. In The Handmaid's Tale, theocratic rule enforces strict societal roles, particularly targeting women. The narrative explores the psychological impact of such oppression, as characters like Offred and Moira navigate their constrained realities, seeking moments of resistance and autonomy.