The epic conclusion of The Handmaid’s Tale unfolded this week with the final episode titled “The Handmaid’s Tale.” This episode brought June (Elisabeth Moss) full circle while keeping the door wide open for the upcoming series The Testaments, which is based on Margaret Atwood’s 2019 sequel. In a world where emotional resonance takes precedence over definitive narrative closure, this ending feels just right.
After the explosive revolutionary events of last week, including the destruction of Boston’s leadership by an airplane bomb, Gilead is in a state of collapse—at least in Boston. While The Handmaid’s Tale has previously hinted at other regions of this transformed country, such as its journey to Chicago in season four, it’s easy to forget the broader conflict at play. The finale emphasizes the uphill battle ahead; liberation efforts continue, with characters like Luke (O-T Fagbenle), Moira (Samira Wiley), and Tuello (Sam Jaeger) determined to push forward.
Meanwhile, Serena (Yvonna Strahovski) finds herself in a precarious position; lacking a homeland, she can’t stay in Gilead and has no options in Canada or the EU. She and her child, Noah, head to a UN refugee camp, their future hanging in the balance. Yet, two vital elements empower Serena: her identity as a mother and June’s long-awaited forgiveness.
Despite the challenges faced, Janine (Madeline Brewer) successfully breaks free from Gilead. Miraculously, she is reunited with her daughter, due in part to Naomi (Ever Carradine), who shows a different side of her character. Though Naomi and Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd) remain in Gilead—where Lydia is likely to play a significant role in The Testaments—the focus remains on June.
Fans receive a welcome surprise with the return of Emily (Alexis Bledel), a character beloved by many who left the show after season four. Additionally, June reunites with her mother (Cherry Jones) and her young daughter, who have been in Alaska throughout season six. June reflects on her relationship with Nick (Max Minghella) while maintaining a respectful understanding with Luke about their diverging paths. However, the bond of missing their daughter, Hannah, persists.
In the series’ inaugural season, viewers witnessed Hannah being forcibly separated from her parents as they attempted to escape Gilead’s oppressive regime. Throughout her harrowing journey as a handmaid, June’s driving force has always been to reclaim her daughter, often at great personal risk. It therefore comes as no surprise when she reaffirms that her primary goal remains the rescue of Hannah, declaring, “I’m not safe, and neither are you. And they are never going to stop coming for us.”
However, there are limitations in the narrative since Hannah is featured in The Testaments. Though we learn she has transitioned with her adoptive parents from Colorado to Washington, D.C.—bringing her closer geographically to June—the anticipated reunion remains elusive. Instead, the finale allows June to channel her grief into a message of resilience and hope.
As her mother and Luke separately suggest she document her experiences, June returns to the ruined Waterford mansion, standing in the very room where she suffered as a handmaid, ready to voice her thoughts.
In “The Handmaid’s Tale,” the show elegantly transforms into the literary work it’s based upon. It’s a poignant strategy to provide closure, hinting that the struggle for justice will continue.
You can now watch all six seasons of The Handmaid’s Tale on Hulu. While a premiere date for The Testaments is still pending, the anticipation remains palpable.
What is the significance of June’s journey in The Handmaid’s Tale? June’s journey not only represents the fight against oppression but also emphasizes resilience and hope in reclaiming identity.
Will The Testaments offer further insights into Gilead? Yes, The Testaments is expected to explore deeper narratives and developments within the Gilead universe, unveiling fresh perspectives.
How does June cope with her losses in the finale? Throughout the finale, June channels her grief into motivating herself and others, making it clear that her fight for Hannah continues.
What role does forgiveness play in the finale? Forgiveness is crucial, particularly in Serena’s arc; it enables her to regain strength and a sense of purpose despite uncertain circumstances.
What themes resonate throughout The Handmaid’s Tale? Key themes include resistance against tyranny, the power of female solidarity, and the quest for personal freedom.
Continue exploring more about the intricacies of The Handmaid’s Tale and discover what lies ahead in The Testaments. For more insights, check out Moyens I/O.