At the end of Homeland, Saul Berenson is retired back in the United States, but his involvement in the world of intelligence doesn't quite conclude. His final moments on screen tie directly into Carrie Mathison's ultimate sacrifice and continued covert operations.
Saul's Retirement and a Crucial Delivery
After a long and illustrious career serving his country, Saul has stepped away from active duty. However, even in retirement, his sharp intelligence skills are put to the test when he receives a mysterious package. This package is not a typical gift but a calculated delivery from his former protégé, Carrie Mathison.
Inside the package, Saul finds a copy of Carrie's memoir, provocatively titled, “Tyranny of Secrets: Why I Had to Betray My Country." The book's cover features a large photo of Carrie, seemingly a public declaration. However, Saul, being the seasoned and crafty spy he is, quickly discerns that the book is much more than a tell-all memoir.
Key revelations upon Saul's discovery:
- A Coded Message: Saul realizes that Carrie has ingeniously placed vital intelligence within the pages of her book.
- Hidden Intel: This hidden information pertains to sensitive details regarding Russian defenses.
- Carrie's Deeper Purpose: This final act by Carrie reveals her ongoing commitment to intelligence gathering for the U.S., even from her seemingly exiled position in Moscow.
Saul's final scene underscores his enduring role as a key figure in the intelligence community, even when formally retired. It highlights his unique ability to interpret complex situations and signals, confirming that the bond and professional respect between him and Carrie remain intact, albeit through unconventional means.