The Deeper Meaning Behind Virility in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6

by

In the fourth episode of The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6, titled ‘Promotion’, Naomi discusses the term “virility” with her husband, Commander Joseph Lawrence. However, this word carries a more profound significance within the series’ narrative.

In the last and concluding episode of the Hulu series, Lawrence is a man who has his hands full. He’s overseeing the liberalized region of New Bethlehem under Gilead, forging diplomatic ties with other territories, and assisting his new spouse, Naomi (previously known as Putnam), in raising her daughter Angela, whom was taken away from her.

As one of the founding designers of Gilead, I’ve always found myself at odds with its religious dogma. I don’t subscribe to their faith, and on numerous occasions, I’ve taken personal risks to discreetly aid June and the Underground Mayday movement.

Instead of Eleanor, who suffered under the restrictive system of Gilead, Naomi wholeheartedly supports its harsh policies. In reality, their marriage is a facade, and her attempts to bond with Lawrence serve to accentuate their contrasting views. Proceed with caution as there may be minor spoilers ahead!

What does virility mean?

Essentially, the term “virility” is commonly associated with traits such as manliness, power, and strong sexual desire, which are often linked to traditional conceptions of masculinity. Additionally, it can refer to a man’s capacity to produce offspring – in this sense, virility for men corresponds to fertility for women.

In the fourth episode of Season 6, the term arises as Lawrence gets ready for a ritual where he will take the oath to become a High Commander.

Naomi moves closer to give him a kiss, but instead he steps back, causing her self-esteem to suffer a blow, leading to a struggle for dominance between them.

She tells him, “Now they’ll have certain expectations from you,” to which Lawrence responds, “I’m ready for anything they come up with.

As a gamer, I can tell you that it’s no secret among us that Lawrence is a hard nut to crack, but Naomi… she’s a different breed. She doesn’t back down; instead, she presses on. In other words, “Things have moved beyond just golf and social events. The High Commanders we’re dealing with here share an unusual set of objectives.

Lawrence sarcastically replies, “I’m well aware of what they consider important,” subtly criticizing the Leadership of Gilead.

Later on, Naomi asserts that “Their source of power stems from their masculinity,” suggesting that Lawrence may be required to prove his manhood (implying an attraction towards women apart from his deceased spouse).

However, Lawrence asserts his authority by saying, “Change brings power, and they recognize me as the one for the job.

Virility takes on a deeper meaning in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6

Naomi’s reference to “virility” goes beyond Lawrence’s absence of emotional intensity in their marriage; instead, it touches upon the deep-seated inconsistencies that characterize the society of Gilead.

In a society supposedly built upon stringent religious principles and moral integrity, those holding positions of power secretly engage in self-indulgent pleasure, as evidenced by their subsequent drinking and partying at Jezebel’s, as depicted later in the episode.

In public, they advocate for moral conduct, yet privately, these men continue to uphold the very habits they had pledged to abolish. However, in this particular society, it is only heterosexual males who are permitted such indulgences.

Naomi’s remark further underscores the demonstrative essence of power within Gilead. Essentially, she is cautioning Lawrence that his advancement isn’t just about political prowess and control; it also requires him to exhibit traditional masculinity to blend in.

In the realm of Gilead, being “virile” transcends mere parenthood; it encompasses dominance, assertiveness, and mastery over one’s surroundings. Here, I proudly stand as a devoted follower, marveling at this unique interpretation of strength.

For an individual such as Lawrence, who primarily relies on his intelligence and tact to guide him, and evidently prefers to maintain a distance when it comes to physical affection (either with his spouse or other females), this creates a contrast with the very system he has contributed in building.

He doesn’t seem overly concerned about Naomi’s opinions, nor those of the other High Commanders.

It remains uncertain if this will lead to his fall, but the man stands firm in his decisions, which is one of the reasons we admire him among the select Commanders, alongside Nick.

Discover when the upcoming episode will be available through TopMob’s guide to the release calendar for The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6. You can also review our recaps of episodes 1, 2, and 3 from this season.

Read More

2025-04-15 13:49