The Handmaid's Tale (L13) Nick Love/Control?

Lesson 13: Nick – Love, Freedom or Another Form of Control?

The Handmaid’s Tale | Chapters 30-32

Essential Question: Does Nick offer Offred freedom, or is he just another means of control?

This engaging lesson guides students through a critical analysis of Nick’s role in The Handmaid’s Tale, encouraging them to explore the ambiguity of his relationship with Offred. Through discussion, textual analysis, and structured written tasks, students will assess whether Nick represents genuine love and protection or is simply another instrument of control in Gilead’s oppressive system.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify and evaluate Nick’s role in Offred’s life.
• Analyse the complexity of their relationship and its implications.
• Assess different interpretations of Nick’s character using textual evidence.

Lesson Activities:

Starter Task:

• Discuss Nick’s character so far – his actions, motives, and status in Gilead.
• Debate whether Offred can truly trust him.

Discussion Questions:

• How does Offred’s relationship with Nick compare to her past with Luke?
• Does Offred seek comfort in Nick out of love, desperation, or manipulation?
• Is Nick an ally, a tool of Gilead, or something more complex?

Written Task:

• Write an analytical paragraph assessing whether Nick offers Offred freedom or control.
• Work in groups to explore different interpretations, using textual evidence.

Reflection & Exit Task:

• Consider Offred’s emotional state and agency in this relationship.
• Reflect on how today’s discussion has influenced your perception of Nick.

Why Choose This Lesson?
Perfect for GCSE and A-Level students studying The Handmaid’s Tale, this lesson provides a structured yet thought-provoking approach to analysing character motivation, power dynamics, and Atwood’s commentary on control and autonomy.

Full 30-Lesson Pack Available from 8th March 2025

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