The first Ofglen that Offred interacts with, like Moira, represents a symbol of hope for Offred. Despite Offred’s initial suspicions and doubts towards her, the two gradually connect and come to trust each other. Ofglen is the one to educate Offred on the underground resistance, opening new possibilities and options for Offred. However, after Ofglen’s suicide, a new Handmaid ‘Of Glen’ arrives to replace her, taking her name, and the previous Ofglen’s suicide and replacement shatters Offred’s visions of freedom and hope. None of the Ofglens’ true names are revealed in the novel, highlighting the repression of individuality and identity in Gilead, and symbolising the lack of transparency in an oppressive society.
