Gilead vs. the Outside World

The Handmaid's Tale

The conflict between Gilead and other nations, including war, refugees, and trade.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

The War

The War The Front Lines The news shows battles against Baptist guerillas. The war is ongoing. Gilead claims victories, but the truth is uncertain. The Refugees People try to escape to Canada. Offred and Luke attempt it. The border is heavily guarded. Many are caught. The Trade Delegations Foreign delegations visit Gilead. Japanese tourists take pictures. The regime tries to appear normal. The outside world is both a threat and a lifeline.

The Colonies The Colonies from "The Handmaid's Tale". The Colonies The Toxic Cleanup The Colonies are where undesirables are sent to clean up toxic waste. They die within three years. Offred's mother is there.

The Colonies from "The Handmaid's Tale". The Colonies The Toxic Cleanup The Colonies are where undesirables are sent to clean up toxic waste. They die within three years. Offred's mother is there.

The Colonies The Toxic Cleanup The Colonies are where undesirables are sent to clean up toxic waste. They die within three years. Offred's mother is there. The Unwomen Handmaids who fail are sent to the Colonies. It is a death sentence. The threat keeps the Handmaids in line. The Resistance Some may survive, but most die. The Colonies are a symbol of the regime's cruelty.

throughout the narrative, reported on TV

mentioned throughout