Сезона
Епизода
Сервер плејера
Priča o službenici

Priča o službenici

20178
ДрамаАкциони и авантуристичкиНаучна фантастика
Објављено
26. апр 2017.
Држава
Сједињене Државе
Продукције
MGM TelevisionWhite Oak PicturesDaniel Wilson ProductionsToluca PicturesThe Littlefield Company
Postavljeno u distopijskom budućnosti, žena je prisiljena da živi kao konkubin pod fundamentalističkom teokratskom diktaturom.

About

Quick guide

A Hulu drama that follows a woman's forced life as a Handmaid in the totalitarian Republic of Gilead.

The series, a Hulu original, chronicles the life of June Osborne, a woman forced into the role of a Handmaid under the oppressive regime of Gilead. Set in a near‑future America where a fertility crisis has led to a theocratic theocracy, the show follows June’s struggle to survive, maintain her identity, and resist the system that has stripped her of freedom and family. Her journey is framed by the stark, ritualistic practices of the Handmaids, the surveillance of the Eyes, and the growing resistance movement known as Mayday. The narrative weaves intimate personal stories with larger social and political commentary on authoritarianism, gender control, and the power of resistance. Throughout its six seasons, the series has explored the moral complexities and harsh realities of living under a totalitarian regime, while also delving into the personal sacrifices and alliances that form in the fight for survival.

What to know

  • Six seasons, 66 episodes
  • Premiered on April 26, 2017; final season ends May 27, 2025
  • Runtime 41–65 minutes per episode
  • Creator: Bruce Miller; based on Margaret Atwood’s novel
  • Stars Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne Strahovski
  • Hulu original; available for streaming in the U.S.
  • Award‑winning: Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series (2017)
  • Set in the Republic of Gilead, a theocratic dystopia

Watch if

If you appreciate character‑driven dramas with a strong political edge, enjoy atmospheric world‑building, and want to see a powerful exploration of gender and power, this series offers a compelling blend of suspense and emotional depth.

Skip if

If you cannot handle graphic violence, strong language, or themes of oppression and are not interested in a slow‑burn, dark narrative, this show may be too intense for you.

dark tonedialogue heavypolitical themesmature themeslanguage strongsome goreintense actionpsychological elementssad tonesuspensefulwar themes
Premise & Setting
The series unfolds in a future United States turned into the Republic of Gilead, a theocratic state that has outlawed women's rights and institutionalized fertility control. Central to the story is June Osborne, a woman forced to become a Handmaid to bear children for a ruling elite. The setting is bleak, with ritualized ceremonies, strict dress codes, and pervasive surveillance, creating a tense atmosphere that grounds the narrative in a realistic, dystopian world.
Main Characters
June Osborne (Elisabeth Moss) is the protagonist whose perspective drives the plot. She is joined by Commander Fred Waterford (Joseph Fiennes), Serena Joy (Yvonne Strahovski), and fellow Handmaids such as Moira (Samira Wiley) and Emily (Alexis Bledel). The characters embody the varied responses to oppression—some comply, some resist, and others navigate the grey spaces between survival and rebellion, offering a spectrum of human reactions.
Political Structure
Gilead is ruled by a strict hierarchy: the Supreme Leader, the High Priests, and the Commanders who oversee the Handmaids and enforce law. The Eyes serve as secret police, monitoring citizens and eliminating dissent. This power structure reflects a totalitarian regime where control is maintained through religious doctrine, fear, and surveillance, shaping every aspect of life in Gilead.
Themes & Motifs
The show delves into themes of gender oppression, bodily autonomy, and political manipulation. Rituals such as the Ceremony and the use of the Eye’s surveillance highlight systemic dehumanization. Motifs of light versus darkness, the color red, and recurring phrases underscore the psychological toll on characters while illustrating the broader commentary on authoritarian control.
Production & Reception
Created by Bruce Miller and produced by Hulu, the series premiered in 2017 and concluded in 2025. It features a runtime of 41–65 minutes per episode and received critical acclaim, winning the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series in 2017. The production values, direction, and performances have been praised for authenticity and intensity.
Season Breakdown
Season one introduces the world and June’s plight, with 10 episodes. Subsequent seasons expand the narrative: season two adds 13 episodes, season three follows 13 episodes, and seasons four, five, and six continue the arc with 10, 10, and 10 episodes respectively. Each season builds on the previous, deepening the world while following June’s personal journey.
Cultural Impact
The series sparked global conversation about reproductive rights, authoritarianism, and feminist resistance. Its imagery of the Red Handmaid uniform and the phrase “Blessed be the fruit” have permeated popular culture. The show’s critical success led to a spin‑off, The Testaments, and influenced discussions on real‑world policies and movements.

FAQ

49 Q&A
What is the significance of the Red Center?
The Red Center is where women who are to become Handmaids are taken. They are taught the new rules of Gilead and how to be obedient. It's a place where their old lives are taken away and they are trained for their new roles.
How does Gilead maintain control over its citizens, particularly women?
Gilead uses strict rules, constant watching, and harsh punishments to keep everyone in line. Women are controlled even more by taking away their freedom, jobs, and the ability to read. Fear is a big tool they use.
What is the Ceremony and why is it performed?
The Ceremony is a forced sexual act between a Commander and a Handmaid. It is done to try and get the Handmaid pregnant because many women in Gilead can't have babies.
What does the phrase 'Blessed be the fruit' mean?
Blessed be the fruit is a greeting used in Gilead. It means 'May you have a baby.' It's said because having children is very important in Gilead.
What is the purpose of the Wall in Gilead?
The Wall is a place where the bodies of people who have broken Gilead's laws are hung. It is a warning to everyone else not to disobey.
Why are women forbidden to read or write in Gilead?
Women are forbidden to read or write because Gilead believes it will make them smarter and want to question things. They want women to be ignorant and obedient.
How are Handmaids identified and distinguished from other women?
Handmaids are identified by their red dresses. This color clearly shows they are Handmaids and have a specific job to do in Gilead.
How does the regime use surveillance and fear to control the population?
The regime uses spies called Eyes to watch everyone. People are also afraid of being punished severely, so they follow the rules to avoid trouble.
What are the different social classes within Gilead (e.g., Wives, Marthas, Aunts)?
Gilead has different classes for women. Wives are married to Commanders. Marthas are housekeepers. Aunts are older women who train the Handmaids.
What does the color red symbolize for Handmaids?
The color red symbolizes fertility and the blood associated with childbirth for the Handmaids. It marks them as women who are meant to bear children.
What does 'May the Lord open' mean as a response?
May the Lord open is a common response to 'Blessed be the fruit.' It means 'I hope I get pregnant.' It shows the desire for children in Gilead.
What does the Commander's desire for Offred's company reveal about him?
The Commander's desire for Offred's company shows he is lonely and perhaps bored with the rules of Gilead. It reveals a forbidden curiosity and a need for connection outside of his role.
What does Offred's name signify?
Offred's name signifies that she belongs to the Commander. 'Of Fred' means she is the property of a man named Fred. It shows she has no name of her own.
Who are the Sons of Jacob and what was their role in the formation of Gilead?
The Sons of Jacob were a religious group that believed in strict interpretations of the Bible. They took over the government and created Gilead, imposing their strict beliefs on society.
What is the significance of the Eyes in Gilead?
The Eyes are secret police who spy on everyone. Their significance is to create a constant sense of fear and paranoia, making sure no one steps out of line.
What is the primary purpose of a Handmaid in Gilead?
The primary purpose of a Handmaid is to have children for the Commanders who cannot have them with their Wives. They are seen as living wombs.
What are the Unwomen and what happens to them?
Unwomen are women who are considered useless or rebellious by the regime. They are sent to the Colonies, which are dangerous places where they have to do hard labor until they die.
What is the significance of the historical epigraphs in the novel?
The historical epigraphs are like old sayings or quotes from history books. They show how the events in Gilead are not entirely new and have happened in different ways before.
What is the role of Aunt Lydia in the Handmaid's upbringing?
Aunt Lydia is a teacher at the Red Center. Her role is to brainwash the Handmaids, teaching them Gilead's rules and making them accept their roles, often through harsh methods.
What is Jezebel's and what is its function?
Jezebel's is a secret, illegal club where Commanders can go for entertainment, including sex with women who are forced to work there. It shows the hypocrisy of Gilead's leaders.
What is the importance of the Scrabble game between Offred and the Commander?
The Scrabble game is important because it's a forbidden activity that shows the Commander breaking Gilead's rules. It's a sign of his desire for intellectual company and a connection with Offred.
How does Offred's internal monologue contribute to the narrative?
Offred's internal monologue is how she thinks and remembers things. It helps us understand her true feelings, her past, and her resistance to Gilead, even when she can't speak freely.
How does Gilead justify its oppressive laws and practices?
Gilead justifies its laws by claiming they are based on the Bible and are necessary to restore order and morality after a time of chaos and sin. They say it's for the good of society.
What societal changes led to the establishment of Gilead?
Societal changes like falling birth rates, pollution, and a perceived decline in morality led to the rise of a radical group that established Gilead. They promised safety and a return to traditional values.
What roles do women in these different classes play?
Wives are the elite women in charge of households but have little personal freedom. Marthas are domestic servants. Aunts are enforcers and educators of Gilead's ideology. Handmaids are for childbearing.
How does Serena Joy's past as a conservative activist influence her role in Gilead?
Serena Joy was a conservative activist before Gilead. This background helped her shape the strict rules and ideology of the new society. She used her past influence to gain power within the Republic of Gilead.
What are the key themes explored in The Handmaid's Tale?
The series explores themes like the oppression of women, the dangers of religious extremism, and the loss of personal freedom. It also looks at how people cope with trauma and fight for survival in a brutal world.
What does the series reveal about the relationship between religion and politics in Gilead?
Gilead shows how religion can be used to control people and justify political power. Religious leaders hold all the authority, and their interpretation of the Bible is used to create and enforce laws.
What is the purpose of the 'Historical Notes' chapter?
The 'Historical Notes' chapter is from the book, not the series. It's set in the future, after Gilead has fallen. It shows how historians study Gilead, giving a different perspective on the events and the people involved.
What is the significance of Offred's tattoo?
In the series, the tattoo marks Handmaids as property of the state. It is a constant reminder of their loss of identity and freedom, and it identifies them as belonging to a specific Commander.
How does the show's portrayal of trauma evolve across seasons?
The show's portrayal of trauma evolves from showing Offred's initial shock and fear to depicting her growing resilience and determination to fight back. Later seasons explore the long-term effects of trauma on various characters.
How does the show's costume design reflect the societal structure of Gilead?
The costumes clearly show the strict social order. Handmaids wear red, Wives wear blue, and Marthas wear green. These colors and styles separate women by their roles and status in Gilead.
What does the Japanese tourist scene reveal about Gilead's international relations?
The Japanese tourist scene shows that Gilead is a place people from other countries find strange and backward. It highlights that Gilead is isolated and that its ways are not accepted by the outside world.
What is the function of the Aunts in maintaining the social order?
Aunts are older women who train and enforce the rules for Handmaids. They use both verbal and physical punishment to ensure the Handmaids follow Gilead's strict religious and social doctrines.
How do the actors approach portraying the traumatic experiences of their characters?
Actors often research the effects of trauma and work closely with the show's creators. They aim to show the emotional and psychological toll of their characters' experiences authentically and powerfully.
How has the show's cultural impact evolved since its initial release?
The show has become a symbol of resistance against oppression and has inspired protests. Its imagery, particularly the Handmaids' red robes and white bonnets, is widely recognized and used in social movements.
What inspired Margaret Atwood to write The Handmaid's Tale?
Margaret Atwood was inspired by historical events and societal trends. She wanted to explore what might happen if certain rights and freedoms were taken away, particularly for women.
What is the significance of Canada's role in the narrative?
Canada represents a place of freedom and safety for those escaping Gilead. It serves as a sanctuary and a base for resistance, highlighting the stark contrast between Gilead and the outside world.
What are some common fan theories about the show's plot or characters?
Fan theories often speculate about the fates of characters, the future of Gilead, and hidden meanings within the story. Some theories focus on potential alliances or betrayals among the characters.
What is the main difference between the book and the TV series adaptation regarding the ending?
The book ends with Offred entering a van, her fate uncertain, with a historical epilogue. The TV series provides more closure for Offred's story, showing her escape and eventual revenge against her oppressors.
What is the significance of the Particicution?
The Particicution is a ritual where Handmaids gather to kill a supposed enemy of Gilead. It's a way for the regime to force the Handmaids to participate in violence and to instill fear and obedience.
What is the significance of Offred's memories of her mother and daughter?
These memories are important because they remind Offred of her past life and the love she lost. They fuel her desire for freedom and her hope to reunite with her daughter, driving her actions against Gilead.
What does the series suggest about the fragility of rights and freedoms?
The series strongly suggests that rights and freedoms are not guaranteed and can be lost quickly. It shows how easily a society can descend into dictatorship when people are not vigilant.
What are some of the real-world events or societal trends that resonate with the show's themes?
The show resonates with concerns about the erosion of women's rights, the rise of extremism, and the impact of political and social upheaval. It reflects anxieties about authoritarianism and the loss of personal autonomy.
What are the potential implications of the sequel series, 'The Testaments'?
The sequel series, 'The Testaments,' explores the inner workings of Gilead and its eventual downfall. It offers new perspectives and continues the story, potentially revealing more about the characters and the regime's fate.
What are the key differences in character portrayals between the book and the TV series?
The TV series often expands on characters' backstories and motivations, giving them more complex arcs than in the book. Some characters who are minor in the book play larger roles in the series.
How does the show expand on the world-building established in the book?
The show visually depicts and adds details to the world Atwood created. It shows more of Gilead's society, its geography, and the daily lives of people in different social classes.
How does Gilead deal with dissent or rebellion?
Gilead ruthlessly suppresses any dissent or rebellion through surveillance, imprisonment, and public executions. Those who defy the regime often face severe punishment or are sent to the Colonies.
How does the ending of the novel leave the reader's interpretation open?
The novel's ending is ambiguous, with Offred's fate unclear as she enters an unknown van. This leaves readers to wonder what happened to her and whether Gilead ultimately succeeded or fell.

Глумци

Elisabeth Moss
Elisabeth Moss
June Osborne / Offred / Ofjoseph
Yvonne Strahovski
Yvonne Strahovski
Serena Joy Waterford
Samira Wiley
Samira Wiley
Moira Strand