In all societies, there is some sense of spirituality. It can be a religion or simply a feeling of mindfulness and connection. While this aspect can be beneficial to communities, it can conversely be corrupting depending on how it is implemented and received. In Margaret Atwood's novel The Handmaid's Tale, Gilead society is built on a totalitarian government derived from a strict interpretation of the Holy Bible. Set in the near future, Atwood writes about a country riddled with infertility; the women, servants, who are capable of conceiving children, are domesticated, almost property of their house. Because of this infertility, birth turns into a sacred occasion – revered as the most precious event in Gilead – so much so that “birthdays” are considered a sort of holiday. By examining “Birth Day,” one can recognize how this absolutist government presents this holiday as a way to maintain control, present hope, and manipulate freedom over women. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The women of Gilead are intensely segregated. Maids are employed in order to keep running errands for civil servants and wives unable to have children. On these “days of birth”, the servants are refused the cakes and other treats that the wives snack on. Wives claim that luxury is unhealthy for women and babies; however, they only intend to oppress these women because they have influence over their wives through sexual relations with their husbands. It is therefore necessary in any case to maintain control. Depriving them of luxuries as simple as sweets is an easy way to achieve this. Second, the vehicles used by the two types of women to get to the place of birth are radically different. Wives enjoy plush seats with large windows to the outside world while maids receive wooden benches and thick curtains to obstruct their view. By placing this extreme difference in luxury, the servants are forced to recognize their caste. Their value rests solely on their ability to produce a child; they became vessels instead of people. In contrast, “days of birth” present a positive light. Since babies are sacred and coveted in Gilead, producing one earns the handmaid a reward. She may receive praise and exemption from office for the duration of the term. Therefore, the fact that a handmaid conceives a child offers hope to others. It's easy to understand what a baby is for these women. For a time, they will have value, praise, and love – even if it is only a false appearance. Second, the idea of ​​a baby gives hope to the other members of the household staff. For example, Cora, one of the Marthas, a servant, wants a baby because for her it amounts to recognition. Offred, the servant of her house, is a physical representation or hope for Cora. A baby for the family means they will have a child to take care of. This will bring people to the house that she can wait for and impress with her cooking and cleaning skills. A baby will have her life and efforts noticed -- the same is said for a servant. All handmaids in the district are forced to attend births in order to create a false sense of freedom. Due to the importance of the day, they are exempt from all obligations. Once they arrive home, these women can do whatever they want – in some.