Discuss how a reader's own context shapes understanding in The Handmaid's Tale and Shallows

Every reader brings to a text their own set of personal values influenced by their social context. These aspects can directly affect the understanding of characters, themes and core ideas by the reader. Margaret Atwood employs biblical references to create symbolism and portrays themes of lost identity, freedom, rebellion against authority, survival, control and change within The Handmaid’s Tale. It was through my context, as a female Catholic secondary school student in the democratic society of Australia, along with my values related to personal freedom, individuality and choice that I understood these themes. Furthermore, my context and values aided in my understanding of the names Gilead, Marthas, Aunts and the Rachel and Leah Retraining Centre along with the characters of Offred and Moira. Similarly in Tim Winton’s Shallows my personal values of supportive relationships, effective communication, environmental protection and standing up for those things important to you influen...