The Handmaid’s Tale is over after 6 seasons, but our obsession with dystopian TV will go on

The Handmaid’s Tale, a dystopian series based on Margaret Atwood’s novel, has come to an end after six gripping seasons. The final episode, available on the streaming service Crave in Canada, dropped early Tuesday morning, wrapping up the story of June Osborne’s resistance against the oppressive society of Gilead.

Throughout the series, viewers were taken on a disturbing journey inside Gilead, a society built on gender oppression and totalitarian control. The show not only highlighted the brutality and abuse faced by handmaids but also focused on Osborne’s relentless quest to reunite with her daughter, Hannah, who was taken from her in the first episode and sent to live with another Gilead commander.

The Handmaid’s Tale resonated with audiences because it was on the “edges of possible,” reflecting real-world fears and societal issues. Atwood, who wrote the novel in 1985, drew inspiration from the political climate of the 1980s, particularly the rise of the religious right in the U.S. The series’ themes of reproductive rights, pronatalism, and authoritarian governments hit close to home for many viewers.

While the show may have come to an end, the popularity of dystopian-themed TV series continues to grow, especially in the wake of global crises and political upheaval. Experts and critics believe that these shows can help us make sense of societal changes and prepare us for potential challenges.

Some dystopian series, like The Handmaid’s Tale and Severance, are set in worlds that closely resemble our own, making the underlying themes relatable. Others, like The Boys and The Last of Us, may seem far-fetched on the surface but still explore relevant issues such as violence, survivalism, and societal collapse.

Watching dystopian shows can be therapeutic for some viewers, allowing them to confront their fears in a controlled environment. However, experts caution that these shows may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who find the darkness and violence overwhelming.

Despite the lack of a tidy conclusion in The Handmaid’s Tale, the series leaves viewers with a sense of hope for a better future. Atwood’s follow-up novel, The Testaments, continues the story of Gilead 15 years in the future, emphasizing the lasting implications of oppressive governments. The fact that Gilead still exists at the end of the series serves as a reminder that the fight against authoritarianism is ongoing and requires constant vigilance.

As fans await the adaptation of The Testaments into a new series, they can reflect on the legacy of The Handmaid’s Tale and its message of resistance and resilience in the face of adversity. Just like June Osborne, we must continue to fight for a better future, no matter how challenging the road ahead may be.