The Blind Assassin

The Constraints of Womanhood

The Disempowerment of Women: Throughout the novel, Atwood explores the various ways in which women are disempowered and controlled by societal expectations, economic dependencies, and patriarchal structures. Iris and Laura's lives are shaped by the limited options available to them, their dependence on powerful men, and the social constraints that dictate their behavior. This theme highlights the struggles women face in asserting their agency and challenging the status quo, showcasing their resilience and resistance in the face of adversity.

The Corrupting Influence of Wealth

Wealth and Corruption: "The Blind Assassin" exposes the corrupting influence of wealth and power, particularly within the context of Canadian society during the early to mid-20th century. The Chase family's decline mirrors the broader societal shifts and the ethical compromises made in pursuit of economic gain. Atwood critiques the exploitation of the working class and the moral compromises that accompany the accumulation of wealth, revealing the dark underbelly of privilege and its impact on individual lives and relationships.

The Deceptive Nature of Appearances

Appearance vs. Reality: The novel delves into the deceptive nature of appearances, revealing the stark contrast between the carefully constructed facades and the hidden truths that lie beneath. Characters often conceal their true emotions and motivations, creating a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty. The metafictional elements of the novel further blur the lines between reality and fiction, challenging the reader to question the reliability of narrative and the subjective nature of truth. This theme underscores the importance of critical thinking and the need to look beyond surface appearances to uncover deeper meanings.

The Power of Narrative

Storytelling as a Means of Survival: Storytelling emerges as a vital tool for characters to make sense of their experiences, preserve their memories, and exert control over their narratives. Iris's act of writing her memoir and attributing "The Blind Assassin" to Laura serves as a way to reclaim her past and shape her legacy. The embedded narrative of the science fiction story provides an escape from the harsh realities of their world, offering a space for imagination and resistance. Atwood highlights the power of stories to both reflect and reshape reality, underscoring their significance in understanding individual and collective identities.

The Destructive Force of Forbidden Love

Doomed Love and its Consequences: The passionate and illicit affair between Laura and Alex Thomas forms a central thread in the novel, exploring the destructive consequences of forbidden love. Their relationship is marked by secrecy, danger, and ultimately, tragedy. Atwood examines the complexities of desire, betrayal, and the societal forces that condemn unconventional relationships. The doomed nature of their love affair reflects the broader themes of oppression and the limitations placed on individual freedom and expression.

The Unreliable Nature of Memory

Memory, Trauma, and the Reconstruction of the Past: Memory plays a crucial role in shaping Iris's narrative, but it is also presented as unreliable and subjective. Trauma and loss distort her recollections, leading to gaps and inconsistencies in her account. As Iris pieces together her past, she grapples with the challenge of reconstructing a coherent narrative from fragmented memories. Atwood explores the ways in which trauma can impact memory and the difficulty of attaining a definitive truth about the past.

The Struggle Against Oppression

Oppression and Resistance: The novel highlights various forms of oppression, including economic exploitation, social class divisions, and sexism. Characters find themselves trapped in oppressive circumstances and struggle to resist these forces. Laura's rebellious nature and her defiance of societal expectations represent a form of resistance against patriarchal norms. Similarly, the political activism of Alex Thomas and his comrades challenges the capitalist system and its inherent inequalities. Atwood explores the different ways in which individuals and groups attempt to challenge and subvert oppressive structures.