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Why should you read "The Handmaid's Tale"? - Naomi R. Mercer

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Margaret Atwood's speculative fiction masterpiece The Handmaid's Tale explores the consequences of complacency and how power can be wielded unfairly. Atwood’s chilling vision of a dystopian regime has captured readers' imaginations since its publication in 1985. How does this book maintain such staying power? Naomi R. Mercer investigates.

The novel’s setting of Cambridge, Massachusetts draws a parallel to the theocracy established by the Puritans during colonial times. What characteristics do Gilead and the Puritans share?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Naomi R. Mercer
  • Art Director Phuong Mai Nguyen
  • Script Editor Brendan Pelsue
  • Animator Phuong Mai Nguyen
  • Storyboard Artist Phuong Mai Nguyen
  • Character Designer Phuong Mai Nguyen
  • Composer Stephen LaRosa
  • Sound Designer Stephen LaRosa
  • Associate Producer Jessica Ruby
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Susan Zimmerman

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