Nolite te bastardes carborundorum. Don't let the bastards grind you down.
The phrase "Nolite te bastardes carborundorum," which translates to "Don't let the bastards grind you down," serves as a powerful mantra in Margaret Atwood's novel, The Handmaid's Tale. It embodies resilience against oppression and serves as a reminder to remain strong in the face of adversity. The protagonist, Offred, uses this phrase to find hope and strength amidst a repressive regime that seeks to strip her of her identity and autonomy. This sentiment resonates throughout the narrative, highlighting the struggle of women to reclaim their power.
This quote encapsulates the central theme of resistance against dehumanizing forces. In a world where individuality is suppressed, the mantra inspires Offred and, by extension, readers to resist despair and reclaim their agency. It represents the fight against the pervasive forces that attempt to devalue personal worth and spirit, encouraging a collective sense of empowerment and solidarity among those oppressed. Atwood’s work thus emphasizes the importance of inner strength and the enduring human spirit in the quest for freedom and dignity.
