MovieChat Forums > The Handmaid's Tale (2017) Discussion > Inconsistent writing

Inconsistent writing

posted 7 years ago by MNRebecca (773)
5 replies | jump to latest

Why does the commander tolerate any manner of insults, progeny cuckolding, and general shrewery from his wife but strap her brutally for trying to save a baby? How is that more defiant than the other stuff?

[–] exatera (3966) 7 years ago

Nothing is consistent about both the Waterfords' behavior. I opened a topic about it a while back, too.

[–] [deleted] 7 years ago

The Waterfords are hypocrites and are constantly flip flopping on their values. They were the architects of the new world and helped invent all of the arbitrary rules, but are having trouble living in the world they concocted. Flashbacks show Serena and Fred being this passionate power couple, but after the revolution they both lose power. Serena loses her career and equal standing with Fred. After Warren got punished, Fred saw how commander’s wives can manipulate the system and gain power over their husbands.

[–] Keelai (36157) 6 years ago

Serena argues with him only in private. The commander wanted the handmaid to be in the room probably because he knew that Serena wouldn't be able to object to her punishment while trying to keep up appearances as a dutiful wife.

It's more defiant because he already told her no and she forged his signature anyway. They could have both been killed for her insolence.

[–] MNRebecca (773) 6 years ago

Good points, thank you.

[–] [deleted] 6 years ago

Yes, he tolerates some of her private behavior. Public behavior - such as saving the baby - can get him into trouble with the higher ups, so he treats those trespasses differently. At least, that's what I've understood.