Nichole, also known as Holly, does not return to Gilead in The Handmaid’s Tale television series. She remains in Canada after June (Offred) sends her across the border in a desperate bid for a better life, free from the horrors of Gilead. This act is a pivotal moment in the show, setting the stage for future conflicts and June’s relentless fight for her daughter’s freedom.
Nichole’s Escape and the Impact on June
The decision to send Nichole to Canada is undoubtedly one of the most agonizing choices June makes. Knowing that her daughter will have opportunities in a free society that Gilead can never offer, she entrusts Nichole to Emily and Moira, risking everything to ensure her safety.
The Psychological Toll
June’s separation from Nichole fuels her resolve to dismantle Gilead from the inside. The pain of separation is a constant motivator, pushing her to take increasingly dangerous risks. It’s a sacrifice that defines her character and drives the narrative of the series.
The Political Implications
Nichole’s escape becomes a significant political issue, both within Gilead and internationally. Gilead demands her return, viewing her as their property and a symbol of their procreation policies. Canada, on the other hand, sees her as a refugee seeking asylum, a representation of Gilead’s oppressive regime. This international conflict highlights the stark contrast between the two societies and amplifies the stakes for everyone involved.
FAQs About Nichole and Her Fate in The Handmaid’s Tale
Here are some frequently asked questions addressing key aspects of Nichole’s story arc in The Handmaid’s Tale:
FAQ 1: What season and episode does June send Nichole to Canada?
June sends Nichole to Canada in Season 2, episode 13, titled “The Word.” This is the season finale and marks a turning point in the series.
FAQ 2: Who helps June get Nichole to Canada?
Many individuals play a role in Nichole’s escape. Serena Joy, despite her initial reluctance, ultimately allows June to escape with Nichole. Emily (Ofglen) is crucial, taking Nichole across the border into Canada. Moira also assists Emily in receiving Nichole and ensuring her safety in Canada. Commander Lawrence plays a complex role, seemingly aiding in the escape, though his motivations remain ambiguous for a time.
FAQ 3: Why does June send Nichole away instead of escaping herself?
June initially attempts to escape with Nichole but realizes that two people crossing the border is significantly more difficult and dangerous. She prioritizes Nichole’s safety above her own, believing that Nichole deserves a life free from Gilead. June decides to stay behind, believing she can contribute to the fight against Gilead from within.
FAQ 4: Does Serena Joy ever regret helping Nichole escape?
Yes, Serena Joy experiences a complex range of emotions regarding Nichole’s escape. Initially, she seems content with Nichole being in a safe environment. However, as the series progresses, her desire to have a child and her yearning for Nichole intensify. This leads to moments of regret and a desire to reclaim Nichole, even if it means jeopardizing the child’s well-being. Her feelings are often fueled by her desire for societal approval and religious validation, which are intertwined with her perception of motherhood.
FAQ 5: What is Nichole’s life like in Canada?
In Canada, Nichole is cared for by Luke and Moira, who provide her with a loving and stable environment. She is given access to education, healthcare, and the freedom to grow up without the fear and oppression of Gilead. Luke legally adopts Nichole. However, the shadow of Gilead and the uncertainty of June’s fate constantly loom over their lives.
FAQ 6: Does June ever see Nichole again after sending her to Canada?
Yes, June sees Nichole again after escaping Gilead. Their reunion is a deeply emotional moment, highlighting the profound impact of their separation and the enduring bond between mother and daughter. These reunions, however, are often bittersweet, knowing that June is still deeply involved in the fight against Gilead.
FAQ 7: How does Gilead attempt to get Nichole back?
Gilead uses various methods to pressure Canada into returning Nichole, including diplomatic pressure, propaganda campaigns, and even resorting to kidnapping attempts. They portray Nichole as a kidnapped child who rightfully belongs in Gilead with her “parents,” Commander Waterford and Serena Joy.
FAQ 8: What legal battles surround Nichole’s status in Canada?
There are legal battles surrounding Nichole’s asylum status and the legitimacy of Commander Waterford and Serena Joy’s claim to her. Canada argues that Nichole is a refugee fleeing persecution and that Gilead’s system of forced surrogacy is inherently illegal and immoral. Gilead argues that Nichole is a citizen of Gilead and should be returned to her rightful family.
FAQ 9: How does Nichole’s existence impact the relationship between Canada and Gilead?
Nichole’s presence in Canada significantly strains the relationship between the two countries. Canada’s refusal to return her becomes a symbol of their opposition to Gilead’s regime. This leads to diplomatic tensions, trade sanctions, and even covert operations aimed at undermining each other.
FAQ 10: What impact does Nichole’s escape have on other characters still in Gilead?
Nichole’s escape provides a glimmer of hope for those still trapped in Gilead. It demonstrates that escape is possible and that the world outside Gilead is aware of their plight. It inspires some to resist and to seek ways to escape, while others become more fearful of the consequences of getting caught.
FAQ 11: How old is Nichole in the later seasons of The Handmaid’s Tale?
As the series progresses, Nichole grows older, but she remains a young child. Due to the condensed timeline within the show’s narrative, she is generally depicted as being between three and five years old in the later seasons. The actors playing her have changed to reflect this aging.
FAQ 12: Will Nichole ever truly be free from the influence of Gilead?
While Nichole is physically free from Gilead, the psychological impact of her birth and early life experiences likely has lasting effects. She will need support and understanding to process her past and to develop a healthy sense of identity, free from the shadow of Gilead’s ideology. Luke and Moira are dedicated to providing her with the tools and resources she needs to navigate these challenges and build a fulfilling future. The fight for her freedom is not just about escaping Gilead, but about ensuring she never has to carry its burdens.