Outlander, a captivating period drama, follows the time-traveling journey of nurse-turned-surgeon Claire Randall as she ventures from the mid-20th century to 18th century Scotland and beyond. Amidst this complex storyline, the enduring love and marriage between Claire and her husband, Jamie Fraser, a brave warrior at the forefront of the Jacobite Rebellion, remain constant. The show excels in its historical accuracy and portrayal of characters torn between different time periods. In an effort to preserve their personal histories, the characters are faced with the manipulation of time. The themes of family, home, and history are skillfully conveyed through the iconic theme song composed by Bear McCreary.
But what exactly does Outlander’s theme song, “The Skye Boat Song,” signify? And which historical event does it reference? Well, the origins of this song can be traced back to a Scottish tune known as “Cuachag nan Craobh” (“Cuckoo of the Tree”), composed by William Ross in 1782. However, the version featured in the series is based on lyric edits made by Sir Harold Boulton in the 19th century. These lyrics poetically depict how Bonnie Prince Charlie, during the Jacobite Rebellion, was transported to the Isle of Skye under the cover of darkness to ensure his safety. Additional lyrics were later written by Robert Louis Stevenson, further enhancing the connection to Claire’s story.
The historical context of the song is rooted in the Jacobite Rebellion of the 18th century. During this time, the majority of Scots desired a Catholic king to reign over Scotland. Prince Charles Stuart, also known as “Bonnie Prince Charlie,” was seen as the rightful heir to the throne, as most believed his father, James, was the true king. However, the ruling powers, primarily Protestant and of English descent, feared that accepting James or Charles as king would bring back Catholicism. Consequently, the Stuarts were exiled. Nevertheless, many Scots fought to restore King James or his son to power, leading to the Jacobite Rebellion. While living in Italy and France, Prince Charles made a brief return to Scotland in support of this cause. However, witnessing the defeat at the Battle of Culloden, he was forced to seek refuge on the Isle of Skye.
The storyline of Outlander commences with Claire unexpectedly traveling from 1945 to 1743, during the early stages of the Jacobite Rebellion. She enters into a marriage of convenience with Jamie, a young soldier, but their relationship evolves into a deep love. In the second season, they journey to France where they encounter Bonnie Prince Charlie, who befriends Jamie and is known for his charisma. Fearing Jamie’s demise at the Battle of Culloden, Claire becomes pregnant with their second child and Jamie makes the difficult decision to send her back to her own time through the stones.
The consequences of the Battle of Culloden affect not only the Frasers but also the entire Scottish population. The English emerge victorious, suppressing Scottish customs such as wearing tartans or playing bagpipes. The Scots are also coerced into practicing a new religion, and they never see their beloved prince again. Outlander’s theme song serves as a symbol of the survival of Scottish traditions, the resilience of its people, and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Notably, Outlander’s theme song evolves with each season, mirroring the show’s dynamic nature. Every new season features a different cover version of “The Skye Boat Song,” reflecting changes in time and location, as well as the Frasers’ personal narratives and origins. The instruments and styles utilized in each rendition align with the corresponding setting in the series. The changes in the song contribute to the show’s mysterious, longing, and affectionate atmosphere, capturing the characters’ deep connection to their home and way of life.
In conclusion, Outlander’s theme song, “The Skye Boat Song,” carries profound historical and emotional significance. It encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of the characters, their unwavering love and devotion, and the resilience of the Scottish people throughout turbulent times. The continuous inclusion of this iconic song throughout the series further emphasizes its importance and serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit that prevails.
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Khushi Patel is a science fiction author who lives in Austin, Texas. She has published three novels, and her work has been praised for its originality and imagination. Khushi is a graduate of Rice University, and she has worked as a software engineer. She is a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America, and her books have been nominated for several awards.
