This research paper examines the depiction of religious oppression and the misuse of Biblical text in Hulu’s web series, The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-2022), to emphasise the systemic patriarchal systems that lead to the marginalisation of women. The paper analyses the dystopian storyline of the series and demonstrates how religion is deliberately employed to rationalise and sustain gender inequality and social dominance. The paper examines the intricate relationship between religion and patriarchy by analysing important scenes and personalities. It demonstrates how religious texts are manipulated to justify the oppression and domination of women in the represented society. The examination explores the consequences of religious and patriarchal frameworks on how feminism and women’s rights are perceived in the real world. It posits that The Handmaid’s Tale (2017- 2022) functions as a cautionary narrative highlighting the perils of merging religious doctrine with governmental authority, resulting in the degradation of women’s independence and rights. Utilising feminist theological analysis, the study argues that the series encourages a reassessment of religious doctrines and cultural standards that have traditionally excluded women. The study finishes by urging for a sophisticated comprehension of the connection between religion and patriarchy. It advocates for the reading of religious texts that endorse gender equality and question repressive systems.
Research Scholar, Dept. of English, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi
