Unveiling the Hidden Retreats- Where the Wheelers Reside in the Distopian World of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’

Where do the Wheelers Live in The Handmaid’s Tale?

In Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel “The Handmaid’s Tale,” the Wheelers are a marginalized and oppressed group of people who live on the outskirts of the society known as the Republic of Gilead. This article explores the living conditions and the social status of the Wheelers in the novel.

The Wheelers, also known as the Unwomen, are a group of women who have been deemed “unwomen” by the oppressive regime in Gilead. They are women who have been deemed barren or who have committed crimes against the state, and as a result, they are forced to live in the colonies, which are remote and harsh environments. The Wheelers are not allowed to have any form of education or employment, and they are subjected to a life of hard labor and dehumanization.

The Wheelers live in the colonies, which are located in the farthest reaches of Gilead. These colonies are characterized by their barren landscapes and harsh climates, making them inhospitable to most people. The Wheelers are expected to work in the fields, cultivating crops and performing other menial tasks. They are often seen as a lower class of people, and they are not allowed to have any form of personal freedom or autonomy.

Despite their harsh living conditions, the Wheelers have managed to maintain a sense of community and solidarity. They have created their own customs and traditions, and they have developed a unique culture that is distinct from the rest of Gilead. The Wheelers have also managed to resist the oppressive regime in various ways, including through acts of sabotage and defiance.

One of the most notable aspects of the Wheelers’ living conditions is their lack of access to basic amenities. They live in makeshift shelters, often made from whatever materials they can find in the colonies. They have limited access to food and water, and they are often malnourished and sick. Despite these challenges, the Wheelers have managed to find ways to survive and thrive in their harsh environment.

In conclusion, the Wheelers in “The Handmaid’s Tale” live in a harsh and oppressive environment, where they are subjected to dehumanization and a lack of basic rights. Despite these challenges, they have managed to maintain a sense of community and resistance, which serves as a powerful testament to their resilience and determination. The Wheelers’ story is a poignant reminder of the dangers of oppression and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.