Margaret Atwood’s book, The Handmaid’s Tale has perhaps never been more relevant. It’s a constant point of referral in politics. Known for her dystopian novels that sometimes bare a scary resemblance to the future, Margaret Atwood is a best-selling, award-winning author.
She also made a cameo in the Hulu adaptation of her best-selling novel. But who is the woman behind the tale?
Who is Margaret Atwood?
Margaret Atwood has been writing since 1960. From then on, she has dabbled in poetry, graphic novels, chamber operas and non-fiction as well as novel writing. In each of her texts, Atwood has a real focus on feminism, and this may be why you’ve heard of her before. Within feminist studies and pop culture, Margaret Atwood is a recurring name.
In recent history, we’ve seen changes in society that are beginning to reflect Atwood’s world. For example, the overturning of Roe V Wade is a stark reality to that in The Handmaid’s Tale. The Handmaid’s Tale is perhaps one of Atwood’s most successful novels and is held in wide regard for its feminist themes. The book has become a talking point in the modern day for its relevance. A group of women were seen outside the US Supreme Court dressed as handmaids in 2018. It seems that Atwood’s legacy will extend beyond her books.
Atwood as an activist
Her books also take on political themes and animal rights themes. Atwood herself is a pescatarian and many of her books have lots of animal symbolism. She is a proactive author that dedicates several causes to her work. Her activism goes beyond just her novels though, as she frequently involves herself in societal issues.
Despite being 82, she is still writing! Her most recent work, Burning Questions: Essays and Occasional Pieces, became a published work this year. She also wrote a follow-up to The Handmaid’s Tale, entitled The Testaments, in 2019. Told from the perspective of those that came after Offred, the book is a great sequel to an outstanding book.
Atwood will forever be a revered author whose works serve as a stark reminder of what could happen in the future.