The Handmaid's Tale, #2
The Testaments
by Margaret Atwood
Contents
54
Overview
Agnes and Becka struggle to inculcate Gilead etiquette in Jade, whose Canadian habits and outspokenness clash with Pearl expectations. Jade’s open contempt for food, grooming defiance, and gallows humor raise risks. Agnes warns her about Aunt Vidala’s scrutiny, heightening the peril of Jade’s cover within Ardua Hall.
Summary
Agnes, now Aunt Victoria, and Becka, Aunt Immortelle, attempt to train Jade in proper Pearl deportment at Aunt Lydia’s request. Jade cannot hold the prescribed posture or manners, despite acknowledging instructions, and quickly reverts to slouching and fidgeting.
At Jade’s first Ardua Hall meal, Agnes and Becka seat her between them to protect her from censure. Jade openly disparages the food, refusing soup and tapioca, drawing attention and risking punishment, while Agnes and Becka urge gratitude and discretion.
Jade begins pulling hairs from her neck, claiming it helps her think, and talks about shaving her head. Becka cites religious modesty and disgrace to dissuade her, underscoring Gilead’s standards; Agnes frames it as a reputational and disciplinary risk.
Agnes warns Jade that older Aunts—especially Aunt Vidala—are vigilant for faults. Jade tries to adjust her speech but continues with blunt remarks, including explaining a “bucket list” and speculating about hangings, prompting Becka to note Gilead’s harsher method.
Who Appears
- Agnes (Aunt Victoria)Narrator; mentors Jade in Pearl etiquette, protects her at dinner, warns of Aunt Vidala’s scrutiny.
- Becka (Aunt Immortelle)Co-instructor; corrects Jade’s posture and piety, cites scripture on hair, cautions against drawing attention.
- Jade (Baby Nicole)New Pearl; irreverent and restless, insults food, pulls hair, talks of shaving, risks exposing herself.
- Aunt VidalaAbsent but menacing presence; cited as vigilant for faults and a danger to Jade.
- Aunt EstéeRecalled instructor; taught grooming warnings about hair removal to Agnes and Becka.