As we journey through the centuries from the comfort of our couch by indulging in the Starz Outlander series, one intriguing question arises: Is it historically accurate?
And, well, most of us had to come to terms with the realization that time-traveling via stones is not possible or in any way accurate. But how about all the other tidbits of information Diana Gabaldon presents to us as facts? The historical portion of this beloved historical fiction/fantasy/romance drama.
Did any of that really happen?
In this blog post, we'll unravel the threads of history woven into this captivating tale and explore how the series manages to balance fact and fiction.
The Starz adaptation of Outlander makes a significant—and much appreciated—effort to recreate historical settings as accurately as possible. Many of the locations depicted in the show are real and bear great historical significance.
The Doune Castle near Stirling, stands in for the fictional castle Leoch, the gem of the McKenzie clan.
Blackness Castle—what a cheerful name, how fitting—doubles for Fort William. Blackness Castle actually traces back to the 15th century, as it used to be an artillery fortress owned by one of Scotland’s most powerful families.
The standing stones of Graig na Dun, which Claire (Caitriona Balfe) visits at the beginning of her journey and time travels through, sadly, do not exist but were created for the show. However, similar standing stone circles can be found in many places around Scotland, from the Twelve Apostles in Dumfries to Stenness in Orkney.
The TV show’s costume department, led by designer Terry Dresbach (for the earlier seasons), has put significant effort into creating historically accurate costumes that reflect the time period.
Outlander is primarily set in the 18th century, during various periods, including the Jacobite Rising and the American Revolution. The costumes aim to depict the fashion of those times as closely as possible, with careful research and attention to detail. This includes consideration of fabrics, colors, and patterns as well as the specific material processing methods used during those times.
However, it's important to note that artistic liberties are often taken in historical dramas to enhance visual appeal. While the costumes are generally well-researched and accurate, there may be occasional deviations for storytelling purposes— a notable example of this will present itself later on this list.
The portrayal of the patriarchal system in Outlander is—generally speaking—reflective of the historical context in which the story is set.
The story is primarily set in a time when patriarchal societies were prevalent in most parts of the world.
In Outlander, we see characters navigating a society where men hold positions of power and authority and women have limited rights and freedoms. Both the books and the show do not shy away from depicting the challenges and constraints women faced during this time.
Claire provides us with an interesting perspective as a 20th-century woman who finds herself thrust back into 18th-century Scotland. Her more modern attitude and reactions clash with the norms of the time, leading to numerous conflicts and tensions throughout the series.
While the show portrays the patriarchal system accurately, it also incorporates elements of female empowerment and subversion to traditional gender roles. Claire, among other characters, challenges the status quo and seeks independence and agency despite the societal constraints they face.
The Battle of Culloden took place in April 1746, east of Inverness. Aiming to restore a Stuart monarch to the throne, about 5,000 Jacobites under the leadership of "The Young Pretender," Prince Charles Edward Stuart, engaged in combat against the British army under the command of the Duke of Cumberland.
The Jacobite rebellion peaked at the Battle of Culloden, which resulted in significant casualties and defeat for the rebels. Major changes to Scotland's spheres of influence and centers of power resulted from the final significant conflict to be fought on British territory.
Some aspects of the battle in Outlander, such as the names of significant figures, the location of the battle, and the general progression of events, are accurate. However, it is essential to remember that historical dramas often tend to alter events for dramatic effect. The main character’s involvement in the battle and the personal conflicts surrounding it are, of course, entirely fictional.
Have you ever found yourself watching Claire's medical escapades and wondering, “Could that really work?” Well, you're certainly not alone in this one.
In fact, the show has sparked some fascinating discussions, including a scholarly paper titled "Claire Fraser, RN, MD, OMG" published in the Journal of the Medical Library Association in 2020. It just goes to show that even scientists can't resist the allure of Claire's medical prowess.
Now, let's talk about some of Claire's medical tricks.
First up, raw honey as an antibiotic ointment. It might sound strange, but in the 18th century, they didn't have the fancy antibiotics we are used to. Honey has been used for ages as a natural wound dressing because of its antibacterial properties.
Then there's the whole whiskey sterilization thing. It might seem like something out of a Wild West movie, but alcohol was actually used for disinfection back in the day. So yes, it's plausible.
But what about that Roquefort cheese and her attempt at making "penicillin"? Well, Roquefort mold is related to penicillin, but it's not the same thing. Making real penicillin requires specific strains and controlled conditions. Claire's makeshift version probably wouldn't be as effective as the real deal. But hey, it's a creative twist on history!
In the end, Outlander might sometimes bend a few scientific rules, but it sure knows how to keep us entertained and thinking. It's a reminder that even in the world of historical drama, there's room for a little creative flair, and that's part of what makes the show so intriguing!
Throughout the series, various Scottish traditions and superstitions are depicted, reflecting the beliefs and customs of the time. Traditional Pagan holidays, like the Beltane festival, which is significant to both Scottish and Celtic traditions, are shown in the series.
Druidic customs and beliefs are also mentioned in Outlander, primarily through the character of Geillis Duncan. The ancient Celtic priests known as Druids have fascinated Scottish folklore for their mysterious activities despite their historical obscurity.
Outlander does not hold back in depicting the Scottish people's deep-seated superstitions. The Scottish were eager to blame sorcery for anything unexplainable they encountered—a tendency that explains Claire’s reluctance to admit the truth about her time-traveling experience.
The fact that Outlander depicts them as heavily-reliant on superstitions is evidence of its historical authenticity.
Well, no. Not really. Kind of…
The character of James Fraser is, unfortunately, a fictional creation born in Gabaldon’s brilliant mind.
However, an individual named Fraser did, in fact, fight in the Battle of Culloden. ‘...following the battle, 19 wounded Jacobite officers took refuge in the farmhouse by the side of the field. There, they lay for two days with their wounds, unattended in pain. At the end of that time, they were taken out and shot, except one man, a Fraser of the Master of Lovet’s regiment, who survived the slaughter. And I was thinking that if I expect Jamie to survive Culloden, then his last name better be Fraser,” Gabaldon told Parade.
The season 3 storyline of Jamie taking refuge in a cave in the woods and becoming known as the “Dunbonnet” was also based on a real person who was also (!) named Jamie Fraser. But that’s the only connection between the character and his real-life inspiration.
Bookworm tip! If you love the mix of history, romance, and adventure in “Outlander” and want more, you should check out podcasts about historical fiction books. These shows dive into discussions about various historical novels, offering insights into how these books are written and the history behind the stories. Listening to these podcasts can deepen your understanding of historical fiction and introduce you to more tales from the past.
The witch trial that Claire faces in the 1740s does not align with the historical timeline. By the mid-18th century, witch hunts and trials were indeed on the decline in Scotland and much of Europe. The peak of the European witch craze occurred during the 16th and 17th centuries, with the last recorded execution for witchcraft in Scotland taking place in the early 18th century, around 1727.
Diana Gabaldon has acknowledged this historical inaccuracy herself. She made a conscious decision to include the witch trial storyline because it served as a compelling plot device to create tension and conflict for Claire. The witch trial subplot allows Claire to confront the superstitions and prejudices of the 18th-century world. It also showcases her resourcefulness and the contrast between her modern medical knowledge and the superstitions of the time.
While the historical accuracy may be stretched, it serves a dramatic purpose within the context of the story.
It's crucial to remember that historical reputations, especially those of monarchs, can be highly influenced by propaganda and the winners of history's narratives.
In the case of Bonnie Prince Charlie, his reputation as a weakling largely stemmed from 18th-century propaganda, which should make us cautious about accepting historical accounts at face value, especially when they involve figures on the losing side of conflicts.
Modern research, as noted by the 1745 Association, offers a more nuanced view of Prince Charles. He wasn't just a passive, pretty face with debatable morals; he actively participated in the Jacobite cause. He led his army across challenging terrain and enjoyed significant support in Scotland, which suggests that he was more than just a bystander in the events of the time.
It's true that Bonnie Prince Charlie didn’t prove to be the most effective leader. We cannot help but think, though, that this aspect could have been portrayed in Outlander without resorting to outdated and offensive stereotypes that link effeminacy with ineffectiveness.
Actor Sam Heughan, who plays Jamie in the series, found it challenging to reconcile this portrayal with the romanticized image of the prince as a national hero in Scotland.
In essence, the discussion around Bonnie Prince Charlie's character highlights the complexities of historical representation and the need to challenge stereotypes when depicting historical figures. History, like any narrative, can be shaped by biases and propaganda, and it's essential to approach it with a critical and open-minded perspective.
While the show is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail, it does take a slightly controversial approach to the depiction of tartans.
The show's costume designer, Terry Dresbach, garnered a lot of attention for her decision not to dress Sam Heughan’s Jamie Fraser in a Clan Fraser tartan kilt.
Dresbach's rationale for this choice was to align with historical accuracy by designing the tartan based on plant dyes available in Jamie's homeland during the 18th century.
This stance challenges the common misconception that clan tartans are centuries-old traditions. In reality, many were invented by weavers and authors in the 19th century, relying on fabricated historical sources.
The truth is that tartans, though rooted in ancient Scottish attire, evolved into clan-specific patterns relatively recently, raising intriguing questions about the fine line between historical authenticity and the narratives we've come to accept as part of our cultural heritage.
In the 18th-century Scottish backdrop of Outlander, Scots Gaelic was the dominant language, not English. Given the historical context of Scottish sentiments towards England, casual usage of English phrases would have been unlikely unless absolutely necessary.
In the series, characters do indeed speak Gaelic, but it isn't the prevailing language for practical reasons.
Ironically, among the cast, only the Sassenach (Caitriona Balfe) was proficient in Gaelic. The rest underwent an intensive crash course to ensure both linguistic accuracy and authentic accents.
Consequently, the Gaelic spoken in the show is faithful to the language, but it remains unsubtitled to let the audience experience the linguistic beauty and mystery as Claire does in the story.
In closing, Outlander takes us on a captivating journey that's part history, part fantasy, and all heart. While we can't actually travel through time via magical stones, the series manages to transport us to the 18th-century Highlands and beyond with its attention to detail and rich storytelling.
Ultimately, the show is a reminder that history, like life itself, can't always be neatly categorized. It's a blend of fact and fiction woven together to create a narrative that keeps us coming back for more. So, whether you're a history buff, a romantic at heart, or just looking for an escape, Outlander offers a captivating mix of reality and dreams that continues to capture our imagination.
Set against the backdrop of the 18th-century Scottish Highlands during the Jacobite Rising of 1745, the series features meticulously researched locations, costumes, and cultural details. Real historical figures like Bonnie Prince Charlie make appearances, and Claire's role as a healer reflects accurate depictions of 18th-century medical practices. While grounded in history, "Outlander" also embraces fantasy, time travel, and imaginative storytelling, creating a captivating blend of the past and the fantastical.
Jamie Fraser, the beloved hero of the Outlander series, is a product of author Diana Gabaldon's vivid imagination. He isn't based on a real historical figure but rather a remarkable fictional character. Fans have been drawn to Jamie for his compelling personality, unwavering principles, and his epic love story with Claire Randall. While the series weaves in historical elements and real-life figures, Jamie's character is a testament to Gabaldon's storytelling prowess.
While many characters in the series are entirely fictional, there are a few based on real historical figures.
Charles Edward Stuart, commonly known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, was an actual historical figure who led the Jacobite Rising of 1745, attempting to claim the British throne for the Stuart dynasty. The character of Bonnie Prince Charlie in the series is portrayed with some creative interpretation, but he is based on a historical figure.
Lord John Grey is another character who appears in the "Outlander" series and has his own spin-off series of novels. While Lord John Grey is a fictional character, he is based on the real historical figure John Grey, the 9th Lord of Grey of Groby. The author has taken liberties with this character's life and personality but used the real historical figure as a starting point.
Jamie’s grandfather, Simon Fraser, or Lord Lovat ‘The Old Fox’, is another historical figure who appears in the series. He is based on the actual Simon Fraser, who lived during the 18th century and was a prominent figure in Scottish history. He played a significant role in the Jacobite Rising of 1745, where he initially supported the Hanoverian government but later switched sides to support Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite cause. His shifting loyalties and political maneuvering during this turbulent period earned him a reputation for cunning and opportunism.
Diana Gabaldon is an American author with a very interesting background. She has degrees in Zoology and Marine Biology and even earned a Ph.D. in Ecology. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked as a university professor and in the field of computer systems.
