Ep 5. Faithful

The Handmaid's Tale season 1 episode 5 titled "Faithful" follows Offred as she struggles with her newfound sexual desires towards her Commander. The episode opens with a flashback to Offred's life before the establishment of the Republic of Gilead, where she was happily married to Luke and had a young child. However, the present day finds Offred struggling to navigate her new role as a Handmaid and dealing with the complicated feelings she has towards her Commander, Fred.

Offred's thoughts about her Commander are muddled and confusing. She cannot understand why she is drawn to him, despite knowing how dangerous it is. In addition, she is afraid that she may have to participate in what is known as the "Ceremony," where the handmaids have sex with their Commanders in order to bear children for them.

Meanwhile, Offred's fellow Handmaid, Ofglen, reveals to her that the previous Ofglen who was assigned to the Commander's house hanged herself when she found out she was being sent to the Colonies. This news shakes Offred to her core, making her question her own sanity and the sanity of those around her.

As the Commander and Offred's relationship deepens, it becomes more complicated. She realizes that he may have genuine feelings for her, but she also knows that any relationship between them is forbidden. In an attempt to distance herself from the Commander, Offred asks to be reassigned to a different household, but her attempts are fruitless.

In one of the most poignant scenes in the episode, Offred tells the Commander that she is unable to have sex with him during the Ceremony due to her menstrual cycle. The Commander is initially frustrated by this news but then admits to Offred that he wants her to like him. This conversation shows the complexities of the Commander's character and his desire for something more than just a sexual relationship with Offred.

The episode also delves into the character of Serena Joy, the Commander's wife. She is portrayed as a complicated character who is trapped in her circumstances. She is jealous of the relationship that the Commander has with Offred but also recognizes that she has a vital role in the Republic of Gilead. As the viewer gains insight into her character, it becomes evident that she is not as one-dimensional as she first appeared.

The Handmaid's Tale season 1 episode 5 is an emotional rollercoaster that delves deep into the psyches of the main characters. It shows the ways in which their relationships are complicated by the oppressive regime they find themselves living in. While Offred's relationship with the Commander is the primary focus of the episode, it also sheds light on the complexities of other characters, such as Serena Joy and Ofglen.

Overall, the episode is a testament to the exceptional writing and acting on the part of the show's creators and cast. The Handmaid's Tale season 1 episode 5 is a heart-wrenching and thought-provoking installment that leaves the viewer wanting more.