The Commander’s real name is never revealed in the story; however, the historical notes suggest that it may have been Frederick R. Waterford. The Commander oversees his household and was one of the men that helped bring about Gilead’s uprising and likely helped create its many laws. Despite this, the hypocrisy of his actions is revealed throughout the novel as he infringes on many of the laws himself, revealing his corruption and abuse of power.
Offred’s feelings towards the Commander are somewhat complex; she despises his clear misogynistic views and ignorance surrounding the cruel society he has created, but also feels increasingly sympathetic as her relationship with him develops throughout the novel and she discovers his feelings of unhappiness and unfulfillment. He appears to be genuinely thoughtful and friendly towards Offred when they begin to have their secret affairs, saying that “he would prefer it” for Offred’s life to be bearable to her, and seemingly trying to help her feel comfortable and at ease.
