The Short Story “Lusus Naturae” by Margaret Atwood

Gender inequality, sexism, and a lack of appreciation for individual differences persist as undeniable elements entrenched within human culture. Despite varying opinions in contemporary society, there is a pervasive consensus that humanity tends to fixate on negative occurrences, employing a bias that can alienate certain individuals (Tugend par. 4). Those who diverge from predetermined social norms often face wide-ranging consequences, with women disproportionately bearing the brunt of societal judgment. Margaret Atwood skillfully employs "Lusus Naturae" to illustrate society's inclination to isolate those whose physical attributes deviate from the norm.

The protagonist, a girl afflicted with porphyria, endures rejection, derogatory labels, and the moniker "Freak of Nature."

Atwood effectively achieves her thematic goals of highlighting sexism, gender-based stereotypes, and isolation by deliberately withholding a name for the protagonist. This deliberate omission serves as a symbolic representation of the limited opportunities traditionally afforded to women in society (Jones et al. 11). The girl, unable to alter her appearance due to the medical condition, finds herself unfairly blamed, as society perceives her as a frightening aberration.

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Despite her initial beauty and strength, society fails to appreciate her, focusing solely on her altered physical state.

One might anticipate unconditional acceptance and support from the girl's family, but they too succumb to societal prejudice, joining the chorus of those wishing her demise. The girl's mother, instead of offering solace, derogatorily labels her a "thing," a "vampire," and a "monster." Even her own blood is served to her, reinforcing the belief that she is a bloodthirsty vampire. Reflecting on this treatment, the narrator muses, "I was a thing, then.

In what way is a thing not a person?" (Atwood 264). This choice of language reveals the author's intent to depict societies where negativity bias prevails.

Atwood's "Freak of Nature" vividly portrays humanity's inhumane response to qualities deemed different or undesirable. Snap judgments abound, fueled by an unwillingness to focus on the positive aspects. The narrative underscores how misunderstood qualities are unfairly painted as repulsive, leading characters, even the protagonist's own parents, to devalue her humanity. Society, driven by collective bias, strips her of her human status, rendering her existence deemed worthless and disgraceful.

Margaret Atwood's "Lusus Naturae" serves as a poignant commentary on the pervasive negative biases within society, particularly concerning gender, physical differences, and societal expectations. The protagonist's lack of a name becomes a powerful symbol, representing the historical limitations placed on women, wherein opportunities were scant, and individual identity was often overlooked (Jones et al. 11). Atwood adeptly explores the societal inclination to focus on externalities, disregarding the intrinsic worth of individuals.

The protagonist's transformation due to porphyria becomes a catalyst for societal rejection and condemnation. Despite her prior beauty and strength, the community fixates solely on her altered appearance, reflecting a collective failure to appreciate her humanity beyond physical attributes. This narrative mirrors real-world scenarios where individuals are often reduced to superficial judgments, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

The family's betrayal adds another layer to Atwood's critique of societal biases. The girl's parents, instead of providing unconditional support, succumb to societal pressure, perpetuating derogatory beliefs and abandoning their parental responsibilities. This familial rejection underscores the insidious impact of societal biases on personal relationships, further isolating the protagonist.

Atwood's "Freak of Nature" becomes a cautionary tale, urging readers to question their own biases and resist the societal tendency to devalue those who deviate from the norm. By weaving themes of gender inequality and societal conformity, Atwood compels readers to confront the consequences of collective negative bias and the dehumanizing impact it has on those who fall outside societal expectations. Ultimately, the narrative serves as a call to empathy and a plea for a more inclusive and understanding society that appreciates the richness of individual differences.