The Handmaid's Tale Season 2 Finale: 7 Ups & 1 Down From 'The Word'

1. The Symbolism In That Ending

While there's a bit of a problem with June's decision to remain in Gilead (we'll come to that later), it's hard to ignore the symbolism and subtext in the moment. The concluding minutes of the episode were, in a way, reminiscent of those from the Season 1 finale. The first season culminated as the handmaid was forced into a truck against her will to face severe punishment.

This time around, however, June made the choice to stay behind and face Gilead head on. She decided. It was her decision. It was the ultimate f**k you to Fred and his archaic views on women. For the entirety of the episode, the commander moaned about how women should be obedient. Well, this woman is far from obedient - and she couldn't be happier about it.

It's all in the subtext, and as always, The Handmaid's Tale nails it when it comes to what's not said.