The Story, "Rape Fantasies", by Margaret Atwood takes place somewhere in Toronto. Its main focus is on the very different ideas on being raped in which Estelle, the protagonist, and her female coworkers, Chrissy and Greta, discuss. In the beginning, the women seem cautious on the topic, but afterwards they share their thoughts towards the issue. Chrissy and Greta's ideas on their rape fantasy are similar because they engage in sex and are harmless. Estelle believes that her office mates" rape fantasies are unrealistic. Although her fantasies are somewhat physical, they do not engage in any sexual activities. The two coworkers compared to Estelle's rape fantasies are completely different and have an unrealistic nature. .
Greta and Chrissy's fantasies on rape are non-violent. Although sexual acts are committed, that is what appears to be wanted. The women are sex starved and take pleasure in the fact that a handsome man is there to ease away their sexual pleasures. Their fantasies are not of rape being committed but, of having gentle, warm and romantic sex. Its seems as if Chrissy and Greta haven't had sex in a long time that they are fond of the idea of just being pleased sexually. This is without having them to be subjected to the abuse and torture that rape comes with.
It is clear why Estelle believes that her coworkers fantasies lack realism. Although their fantasies are unrealistic, so are Estelle's. She indulges in several fantasies and in each case she convinces them not to rape her. It shows that she is scared of sex and she is torn between male companionship and her desires. Estelle has low self-esteem and doesn't think she deserves better because all the men she"d fantasize about would have something wrong with them. She would rather have just the man than have the baggage that he carries along. She avoids sex in every scenario and she comforts and helps the men who are not typical rapists.
