Language and Power

How does Atwood present the power of words in the novel?

Reading:

• 'Soul Scrolls' - digitalised prayers - status - ability to 'pray'
• scrabble, taboo, female intellect - sensual to the man
• magazine in Commander's office
• Bible reading in the pre-ceremony
• scrawling in the cupboard - Latin

Writing:

• mostly forbidden
• scrabble, female intellect - sensual to the man
• burning ***********
• magazine in the Commander's office
• scrawling in the cupboard - Latin

Speech:

• 'Soul…