Gender Roles and Stereotypes

Estelle's narration is filled with stereotypes of both men and women. For instance, she describes Chrissy as a receptionist who "looks like one." Atwood relies on the power of the stereotype for readers to envision Chrissy's appearance; the only details readers are given are that she wears lots of makeup, blushes at the thought of discussing rape fantasies, and "looks like she was painted allover with nail polish." Some of the story's humor also lies in stereotypes. When discussing Chrissy and Greta, who wants to be a receptionist, Estelle describes them as blondes who "try to outdress each other." Estelle is also cognizant of male gender roles, and feels sympathy for the men in her rape fantasies because they do not live up to her preconception of the ideal man, a "Clint Eastwood" type. "I mean there has to be something wrong with them," she...