Jezebel Quotes Handmaids Tale

Okay, deep breaths everyone. I'm about to say something potentially controversial. Something that might get me banished to the Colonies. Or worse, asked to bring the snacks to book club. But here goes...

Sometimes, and I mean sometimes, I think certain quotes attributed to the biblical Jezebel sound suspiciously…familiar. Like they could have been lifted straight from an outtake reel of The Handmaid's Tale.

I know, I know! Biblical villain versus dystopian icon. It sounds crazy, right? But hear me out.

"Had I Zimri peace, who slew his master?"

Now, picture this. Jezebel, queen and all-around sassy ruler, reportedly uttered this gem. It basically translates to: "You think you can overthrow me and everything will be fine and dandy? Think again, buddy!"

Doesn’t that just scream Commander Waterford levels of smug? Imagine him saying that to Offred (or anyone, really) after a particularly rebellious act. It has that same self-assured, utterly tone-deaf vibe.

I can almost hear the echoes of "Blessed be the fruit" dripping from the same lips that might have uttered this quote. Okay, maybe not. But the power dynamic is certainly there.

The Allure of Control

Let’s be real, both Jezebel (in her historical/mythical context) and the leaders of Gilead are all about one thing: control. Control of power, control of resources, and, of course, control of women's bodies. I mean, hello, Handmaids?

Sure, the methods are different. One involved worshipping different gods and allegedly plotting against prophets (details vary, history is messy!), the other involved ritualized rape and a whole lot of teal clothing. But the underlying motivation is the same: maintain the status quo, no matter the cost.

Think about it. Wouldn't a well-placed Jezebel quote have added another layer of complexity to Serena Joy's character? Imagine Serena, in a moment of quiet desperation, muttering, "Had I Zimri peace…" before plotting her next move.

Okay, Maybe I'm Reaching

Look, I'm not saying Margaret Atwood time-traveled and took dictation from the actual Jezebel. (Though, wouldn't that make a great sequel?). And I’m not trying to rewrite religious history. Just having some fun.

It's just that sometimes, when I'm re-watching The Handmaid's Tale for the millionth time (don’t judge!), I hear echoes of other powerful, complex, and ultimately flawed female figures from history and literature. And yes, that includes the queen whose name has become synonymous with female wickedness. It's a very unfair representation, but a discussion for another time.

And maybe, just maybe, those echoes remind me that the struggle for power, the oppression of women, and the fight for freedom are timeless themes. Sadly, even the best TV show are built upon universal patterns, historical events and popular beliefs.

The Point Is...

The real point is, history is fascinating. Literature is powerful. And sometimes, mixing the two can lead to some pretty thought-provoking (and slightly ridiculous) conclusions. So, the next time you hear a particularly cutting quote attributed to Jezebel, just imagine Commander Waterford saying it with that condescending smirk of his. You might be surprised at how well it fits.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go hide in my room and pray that the Eyes don't come knocking. And maybe re-read The Handmaid's Tale. For research purposes, of course.