"The Commander" is a central character in the dystopian novel "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood. He holds a high-ranking position in the totalitarian regime of Gilead, where he enforces strict societal rules and norms. His role is pivotal in the oppressive system that subjugates women, particularly the Handmaids, who are forced to bear children for elite couples. The Commander is portrayed as a complex figure, embodying both authority and vulnerability. He engages in secretive activities, such as visiting forbidden places and forming a relationship with Offred, the protagonist. This duality highlights the moral ambiguities within the rigid structure of Gilead and raises questions about power and complicity.