The latest episode of The Testaments has left fans wondering what 'Marat Sade' means. Episode 9 of the series, now streaming on Disney Plus, is one of the heaviest instalments yet. The Margaret Atwood adaptation is set to conclude next week, and its future remains uncertain.
Viewers have followed main character Agnes (Chase Infiniti) as she confronts the brutal truth about Gilead, while newcomer Daisy (Lucy Halliday) works to destroy the oppressive regime. In this episode, Becka unexpectedly joins the 'revolution,' and the title 'Marat Sade' hints at radical change.
What Does 'Marat Sade' Mean?
'Marat/Sade' is the shortened title for 'The Persecution and Assassination of Jean-Paul Marat as Performed by the Inmates of the Asylum of Charenton Under the Direction of the Marquis De Sade.' Written in 1963 by German artist Peter Weiss, it is a philosophical play-within-a-play set in a French asylum, where patients perform a drama about the French Revolution.
The core debate is between Jean-Paul Marat and Marquis de Sade. Marat argues that collective revolution can improve society, even if violence is necessary. De Sade counters that humanity is inherently selfish, so no political revolution can truly change society; he prioritises individual freedom and personal pleasures.
Connection to Episode 9
Warning: This section contains mentions of sexual abuse.
At the episode's end, Becka takes a violent step toward liberation by killing her paedophile father, Dr. Grove (Randal Edwards), after discovering he has been sexually abusing her friends. Becka initially denies Daisy's allegation but is forced to face the truth when Agnes reveals she too was abused by Grove. Becka commits murder in a fit of passion, ending her father's crimes. However, it remains unclear whether her actions will inspire real change in Gilead.
The series finale will presumably take a side in the Marat/Sade debate, weighing collective revolution against individual action.
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The Testaments is streaming now on Disney Plus.
