What is Margaret trying to get across?

Margaret Atwood the author of The Edible Woman, is trying to inform the reader about feminism, and dignity. Feminism in this novel is expressed through several different characters: Marian, Ainsley and Clara. It is impossible to ignore, the way Margaret highlights the women in this novel. She informs the reader about feminism by implying women are equal to men, and sometimes it is beneficial to not have a man. Marian is a smart young lady who has many friends and a decent job, Ainsley has her independence and charm, and Clara is married to a man who loves her and treats her well. Although Margaret has Marian struggling with femininity, by having her stop eating because she is unhappy with the way she is and Peter is making her feel this way. Margaret ends the novel with Marian finding a man who is nice to her, and she finally feels happy about herself. Dignity in this novel is also expressed through the characters, which informs the reader to have self confidence. Knowing you are important and worthy, increases self confidence. Therefore, Margaret Atwood is trying to inform the reader that everybody is equal, and you should be treating others with respect.