Women have no rights or money unless they have a valid marriage to a man.
Their use and status is totally dependent on their relationships with men and ability to have children. But this concept of women being extensions and property of men is one used in our own society. This leads to the idea that Atwood is really just exaggerating the current situation of the world. It demonstrates where these views could lead if encouraged or entertained. It gives the idea that men would act that way if given the power, that they would like to be in control and superior.