Outlander Season 5 premiere has come and gone. Blogger Anne Gavin shares her thoughts about the many ways the episode brought us back to Scotland.
There were times through these 386 days of drought that I wondered if I would make it. It was excruciating to be withOutlander. Something about this break between seasons seemed harder than past ones. I was thankful then that working as a writer at Outlander Cast Podcast and Blog kept me engaged, not only with the fandom but also with an obsession that began in November of 2014 when I caught Outlander Season 1 on STARZ.
Scotland, oh Scotland. It drew me in. Outlander’s Scotland was my gateway drug that lead to this glorious addiction. The landscapes, the history, the clans, the swords, the kilts, the castles, the hills, the lochs — all captured my soul. It set off a series of personal events that has altered my life in an incredibly positive way. Outlander Season 1 and the back half of Outlander Season 2 were some of my favorite of the series. Those episodes are what Outlander means to me. But my struggle began mid-season 3 when the Frasers left Scotland and set sail for the Caribbean and eventually the American colonies. The dread I felt leading up to the beginning of Outlander Season 4 was palpable. I had invested so much time and energy into the series being Scotland-based that I wondered if moving the story to the colonies would change the way I felt overall about Outlander. After the Season 4 premiere aired, I worked hard to find some of what I loved about Outlander’s Scotland in the opening episode. I put on a brave face and found a few things that I wrote about in this blog post. But, always in the back of my head I was missing Scotland. Intellectually I knew the story had moved across the pond, but emotionally, I didn’t really like it.
Fast forward to Outlander Season 5 and je suis prest for more America and subsequent Fraser drama. I had made my peace with the story moving away from Scotland…sort of. However, nothing prepared me for the glorious references sprinkled throughout Episode 5.01. Outlander was back! Highlander Jamie Fraser was back! And for 66 minutes I was transported once again to Outlander’s Scotland. All those feelings of joy returned and I remembered what it felt like the first time I became immersed in the world of Outlander and Scotland.
Here are my Top Five Moments in Episode 5.01 that brought it all back to that warm and fuzzy place — it’s All the Scotland Things!
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#1 Murtagh/Jamie Flashback
The moment the wailing strains of the bagpipe began to play, I sucked in my breath and then held it for just a moment. The stunning tracking shot of the hills and forest behind the lush green fields and the brief glimpse of Lallybroch brought back all the feels. It reminded me of several Outlander Season 1 episodes where the grandeur of the Highlands of Scotland was showcased: “Rent,” “Castle Leoch,” “Sassenach” — to name just a few episode titles where Scotland became as significant a character in the story as any of the actors and the characters they played. This opening scene was an important bookend to the tale that would follow in Episode 5.01. The scene and dialogue reminded me of the essential relationship that TV Outlander and the amazing Duncan Lacroix and Sam Heughan nourished through four seasons of the show. Family loyalty and the importance of promises and oaths to those we love were themes that ran all through Outlander Season 1 and much of seasons 2 and 3. Back then it gave those of us new to Scottish clan history a glimpse into this unique way of life and why fighting and dying together was the ultimate act of fealty. The looks exchanged between young Jamie and his godfather reminded me of why I fell in love with this relationship in Outlander Season 1. My heart did a familiar pitter-patter as I basked in the warm glow that is Outlander’s Scotland.
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#2 The Wedding
There are few Outlander fans who don’t cite Episode 1.07 as one of their favorite if not THE favorite episode of all the series. The sexual tension that had been festering between Claire and the handsome Highlander Jamie Fraser finally came to its climax (so to speak!) in this episode! But, before that, an overwhelmed Claire made her vows tentatively surrounded by strangers and more than a bit impaired from self-medicating with whisky the night before. Claire had been thrust into a marriage of convenience that meant the difference between surviving in her new time or perishing and likely never finding her way home to her 20th century husband. She was dazed, confused and all kinds of conflicted that day. In Episode 5.01 we are gleefully transported to the 18th century to relive that romantic ceremony and Jamie in all his kilted finery. Back to Brianna and Roger making their very clear-headed vows to each other, Jamie and Claire turn their attention inward for a moment. Remembering their own vows, they both spontaneously say “as long as we both shall live” thereby reaffirming their love and commitment. That clarity for them after having been through so much since their own wedding day was also a call back for me.
As viewers we know the troubles, frequent separations and conflict that have kept these two always fighting for their love and their family. For me it was a lovely remembrance of the crux of the story — the love of these two people and the relationships and family that come along with them wherever they go. The faces of the wedding-goers at Fraser’s Ridge were not dissimilar to the crew gathered at the kirk in Outlander Season 1. Connected by heritage and shared dreams, the people of Fraser’s Ridge represent Jamie and Claire’s new clan. Indeed, when Jamie announced that the Frasers were gathered at the start of the ceremony, it reminded me that the community formed at Fraser’s Ridge was as close to the Mackenzies of Leoch as it could be at this point in the story. There is a shared identity amongst these settlers even if not all descended from the same family. The entirety of the wedding sequence tugged at my heart strings and brought all the Scotland feels roaring back.
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#3 The Gathering
I was thankful that the show runner and writers decide to condense this rather lengthy segment of the book into a manageable hour of television. Gathering at the Ridge and not River Run made it feel more like a family affair, set amidst the magnificent Big House and all of Jamie’s new tenants and family. Just like at the gathering at Castle Leoch in Outlander Season 1, this gathering was a multi-day event filled with feasting, dancing and drink layered on top of the wedding celebration of Brianna and Roger. So many times I found myself thinking back to the festive days and nights at Castle Leoch when Mackenzies from across the Highlands of Scotland gathered to take their oath to another laird, Jamie’s Uncle Colum. There were humorous drunken escapades then lead by the comedy team of Rupert and Angus, some intrigue thanks to Uncle Dougal and a general feeling of family, of clan.
As Claire pointed out in Episode 5.01, the Ridge would serve as the foundation for the rest of their lives in this new country, just as Leoch was the epicenter of so much of the drama in Season 1. And, in 5.01’s gathering, while not the Mackenzies gathered, it was in fact a first gathering of a kinship of Scots in the new world. Displaced from their clans and homes across the sea, they celebrated with food and traditions passed down from their Scottish heritage, including Scottish fiddles, dancing and a feast Mrs. Fitz would be proud to serve. And, then there was the whisky, which seemed to be in abundance! Surveying the scene at the Ridge, it wasn’t hard to imagine Angus and Rupert eyeing the lassies while refilling their flasks. My heart swelled watching these beautiful scenes of celebration and of kinship. It felt so reminiscent of times spent with the Frasers and Mackenzies in Outlander Season 1. We were just missing a boar hunt! Unlike Jamie’s disparagement of Roger’s unique talent, however, the groom’s singing was just fine by me.
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#4 The Laird and the Oath Taking
The kilt is back and so is the laird. As fans, we’ve been waiting for this for a very long time — since the Battle of Culloden to be exact! Jamie’s agency, natural leadership abilities, and charisma were in full effect as he donned that tattered, yet still powerful piece of tartan. It symbolizes both for Jamie and for the audience what it means to be a Scot. Lighting up the Celtic Cross — so much symbolism there as well — Jamie very deliberately created his own ceremony amongst the people of the Ridge while sensing and knowing the approach of war. This was so evocative of the oath-taking in the Great Hall at Leoch when Colum sought to secure the loyalty of his men in advance of the Jacobite Rising of 1745.
While not kin, the men of Fraser’s Ridge were called to follow Colonel Fraser and pledge their fealty. Jamie knew he would need their loyalty as he tried to secure the safety of his family while remaining true to his own oath to the English crown. Accompanying all of this, composer Bear McCreary repurposed a tune from Season 2, Moch Sa Mhadainn. I was delighted to hear this arrangement again as it was the backdrop for my #1 Musical Moment of Season 2 in this blog post I wrote in November of 2016. The tune was created from a poem in the Jacobite era and was meant to exude a sense of optimism that the arrival of Bonnie Prince Charlie would lead to a victory over the English oppressors. Gaelic singer, Griogair Labhruidh reprised his haunting vocals in the episode 5.01 version of the song to great effect.
In Outlander Season 2 we hear the song in several episodes after Jamie and Claire return to Scotland from France intent on stopping the Rising. Back then it embodied the coming of war and the pride of the Jacobites for their Prince and their cause. In 5.01, it accompanied Jamie as he displayed symbols of the Scots and their proud history before his kin and tenants. And, not lost on the viewer were the faces of the Red Coats gathered that night who must have been thinking about the many stories they heard of the fierce fighting of the Jacobites. Highland Charge anyone? It was the perfect choice of music for this moment as Jamie reminded all of us of his heritage but also that of Outlander and the story conceived in the Scottish Highlands. Brilliant.
Outlander STARZ
#5 Relationships
An intangible aspect of Episode 5.01 not necessarily tied to a scene or a plot point, was something I have really missed from Outlander. The relationships between the characters and how they interact with each other and with the plot was a standout in Outlander Season 1, but missing at times in some subsequent seasons. In Episode 5.01, I got that same Season 1 feeling with most of the major characters but also some of the minor as well. The small moments between Jamie and Claire and how they each related to Brianna as she was preparing for her wedding were some of the most poignant and emotional of the episode. Also, seeing how Jamie and Roger are struggling to trust each other for the sake of the love they both share for Brianna was beautiful to see. There was even a bit of humor. Tears mixed with laughter is a tried and true Outlander trope that I have missed. There was a lot of that in Episode 5.01 and I am grateful.
Roger and Brianna’s small moments also served to finally move these two along to a place where we can all really start to care about them and their future. Previous seasons did very little to help us with that to the detriment of the show overall. But, in the premiere we could see Roger’s sensitivity to Brianna’s trauma as well as his willingness to claim his family after taking his time to return to River Run. Jamie’s moments with Lord John, while brief, also bring us back to the heart of that relationship. There is an incredible trust between these two men, as they know each other’s secrets and have chosen to honor those secrets over time and much turmoil. I really loved seeing these two together again, however brief.
And, so while we often focus on Outlander’s plot and where the story will take our characters next, I felt like 5.01 gave us back what we had missed from earlier seasons — the connection of relationships. The final scene of the episode was the best example of this. It perfectly connected the opening scene — Murtagh’s oath to young Jamie — to the time when the godfather’s cause and Jamie’s dilemma would necessitate a separation. So many scenes from seasons 1 and 2 flashed before my eyes as Jamie released Murtagh from his oath. Despite the protestations of book readers, Murtagh’s emergence as a major character and survival past Culloden remains the single best book change of the series overall. It is Outlander at its best. I have become so invested in that relationship that this scene reduces me to a puddle each and every time I see it. I hope Episode 5.01 is the start of a season filled with more of these unique and complex relationships we loved from Season 1. If the premiere is any indication, it might just be.
Overall, I am thrilled with how this new season began. Outlander is back in fine form. It reminded me so much of what I came to love about this show and its characters. I would watch regardless, but do hope that Outlander Season 5 story arcs will continue to hit on the themes that drew us to Outlander in the first place. It’s where I want to be!
Thinking about the Outlander Season 5 premiere and writing this blog post, I was reminded of lyrics from a song called Hearts of Olden Glory, written and performed by well-known Scottish Celtic band, Runrig. It’s a fantastic song in its own right, but reminds me of how I feel when I think nostalgically about Outlander and its beginnings in Scotland. Let’s hope that we are on the right track here with Season 5 and that old magic is here to stay.
Down the glens where the headlands stand
I feel a healing through this land
A cross for a people like wind through your hands.
There must be a place under the sun
Where hearts of olden glory grow young.
— Hearts of Olden Glory – Runrig
Were there aspects of Episode 5.01 that reminded you of Outlander seasons past?
Anne Gavin is a senior writer at Outlander Cast and obsessive frequent traveler to Scotland. Anne also writes a series of travel blogs called “The Scotland Diaries.” Her 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 travel series can be found at Outlander Cast by searching “Scotland Diaries.” Follow Anne on Instagram here or at Outlander Cast’s Instagram here, where many of Anne’s photos of Scotland are often featured.
Matt Roberts knocked it out of the park with this episode and Anne you also did with this blog post. You put into words exactly what I feel about this episode. I read the Outlander book almost 30 yrs ago and fell in love with Jamie Fraser but life took over and I didn’t read any more. Last May I found the series, watched seasons 1-4 over and over. Bought all 8 books, have read them twice and now listening to them. But…..I never watched a single episode over and over and over. I’ve watched 501 seven times so far and will watch several more before 502 drops tomorrow night at midnight. Sam said this might be the best season yet. If 501 is any indication we’re in for A FANTASTIC 3 months!!!!!
Joanna — well first of all, thank you! I am glad I was able to put to words what you were feeling. Second of all, VERY glad you rediscovered Outlander again and have become immersed in this wonderful story once more. And third, I agree that Season 5 is looking quite promising.Fingers crossed! Lastly, thank you SO much for taking the time to read and comment. It means a lot. Please come back to the blog for more content and commentary as the season progresses! We do all this for you and Outlander fans who love this story as much as we do at Outlander Cast Blog! Slainte!
Love your comments, Anne! You are spot on with your insightful observations, giving us all the feels and bringing us back to Scotland – the start of our obsession. I think we are all in agreement that nothing can compare to Season 1, but this episode does give us hope that Season 5 might be a close second.
Karyn — thanks for reading and commenting and for the positive feedback. I think Season 1 will always stand head and shoulders above all, but it was so nice to see all the wonderful call-backs in 5.01 to that first amazing season. I am optimistic about Season 5. But, thank you again and please come back to the blog for more great content as the season progresses. Expect we’ll be busy writing about more fantastic episodes! Slainte!
In 2016 my husband and I planned a trip to Scotland. Growing up with my Scottish/English grandfather, a singer and a wonderful storyteller, I always wanted to see and experience what he sang and told me about (was so surprised to hear the Skye Boat song when the series began). Well, just before leaving, a friend gave me a copy of Outlander and told me how much I would love it and that started my love affair with everything Scottish—I wish my Papa was still alive to discuss. I was so young and never connected things he brought back from his trips-a silver thistle pin for my kilts, the yards of Stewart plaid he bought for my grandmother to sew dresses for me, hand knit wool sweaters…When the show began I was fascinated with the costumes and mesmerized by the scenery. I loved E501 and love your commentary—it brought us back! I miss my James Alexander Somerville Bourhill —I’m not sure about the love scenes, but he would have loved the attention Scotland has received because of this wonderful series!
Ah, Phyllis — what a wonderful story about your Grandfather. I think he would be so proud knowing now how much you treasure all the bits of Scotland he gave you. What memories in all those lovely trinkets! And, I think because Diana and the show has given so much due to real Scots history, I think your Papa would have just loved it. So glad it all reminds you of him. It never ceases to amaze me how much Outlander can impact lives in such a positive way — like truly! Thanks for reading and commenting. We love hearing from our readers/followers. Be sure and check back often throughout the season for more great content on the blog and podcast! Slainte!
I started reading the books (6 times) just before the TV series started and I’ve watched the series over and over except for Season 4 which really disappointed me. But Season 5 Ep 1 I’ve watched 7 times now and its not perfect but has all the stuff I wanted to see for Jamie and Claire and family especially the humor that has been missing. Sam really shines in this episode and does some great acting! Can only hope it continues!
Susan — 6 times reading all the books….WOW! You are a Super Fan, for sure! Glad you loved the episode. There was so much to like and very little to fuss about. And, I agree, some great acting on Sam’s part. Hopefully more of that on the way! Thanks for reading and commenting. It means a lot to me. Please be sure to check back throughout the season for more great content and commentary on the Outlander Cast Blog and Podcast! We are here for you. Slainte!
I started reading the books (6 times) just before the TV series started and I’ve watched the series over and over except for Season 4 which really disappointed me. But Season 5 Ep 1 I’ve watched 7 times now and its not perfect but has all the stuff I wanted to see for Jamie and Claire and family especially the humor that has been missing. Sam really shines in this episode and does some great acting! Can only hope it continues!
You pretty much listed my highlights, too! Thank you. I loved your connecting Runrig’s “Hearts of Olden Glory” to Outlander, one of my favorite ones. I love the band, have bearly all of their records, and there are a few more of their songs that connect to Outlander for me, “Protect and Survive” and “The Greatest Flame” would be two.
Arne — YAY — a fellow Runrig lover!!!They are on permanent replay in my car. I adore them and “Hearts of Olden Glory” especially reminded me of Episode 5.01 in particular when I was listening the other day. I also love “Proterra” and “Stamping Ground.” Just so many. Really glad you enjoyed the blog post and most importantly, the premiere episode. I really feel like more good stuff to come. Thanks for reading and commenting. We’ll be here at the blog throughout the season producing more commentary and content, so come back early and often. Slainte!
Two small moments that bright back me worked for me where when Jamie was urging Murtagh to go – it reminded me of when he sent Claire back through the stones – the same urging, heartbreak but commitment to what was right.
The other strange little moment that had echoes for me was when Jamie addresses the people and urges them to follow him, he spreads his arms wide to encompass and encourage all – it reminds me Geilis’ ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ speech at the university that Brianna witnesses – the exact same gesture, silence and tension…
Justine — those are two really good call-backs that I didn’t notice at first. So, thank you! As if I couldn’t love the episode any more! Really appreciate you reading and commenting. I always learn a lot from our readers. Be sure and check back with the blog throughout the season. All of us are just dying to write more commentary and give you guys some really good content to think about. Slainte!
Justine, I gasped when I read your connection between Jamie sending Murtagh away and sending Claire back though the stones (both times!) Jamie bearing his own heartbreak each time to do what’s right. I think tossing the damn stone in was another connection. Add in the fact that the performance was equally powerful in each instance. Great call.
Agree! Interesting comparison and really spot on!
Thank you for this post. One thing about the relationships you didn’t mention was Jocasta and Murtaugh. I cried when he basically, gave her the go ahead to marry another. The expression of hope on Jocasta’s face was dashed with his response. I could also see his heart breaking as well.
Terry P. — Agree regarding #Murcasta. It was really sad to see Jocasta take her hand away when she realized Murtagh was not going to give up his cause for her. Loved them together, but Murtagh has a destiny to fulfill now. Excited but a little scared to see how his story arc completes itself this season. Need more Kleenex, me thinks! Thanks so much for reading and commenting. We will be here at the blog throughout the season with more great content and commentary, so check back early and often. Slainte!
Your commentary is exactly spot on my feelings towards Outlander. All things Scottish are integral to the Outlander story. Couldn’t agree more that the series is at it’s best when those elements are there.
All things Scotland captured my imagination from season I and it also has taken me on a journey to explore more.
Here’s hoping for more of it in season 5.
Marilu S. — Sounds like you and I have taken a similar journey with our fascination with all things Scotland. I give Outlander ALL the credit for that and am so grateful. Let’s hope, as you say, that we will get more of the Scotland bits in episodes to follow. Thanks for reading and commenting. We will be here throughout the season and hope to bring you more good commentary and content at the Blog as we move along with this fantastic story. Slainte!
Anne, you continue to read my mind and convey our shared thoughts through your insightful writings. Absolutely Scotland had been left behind last season, literally and figuratively. The story line required it — but that doesn’t mean I liked it. But now, like you, I’m thrilled to see the strong references to what drew us in about this saga reemerging. Thank you for the joy you gave me through your writing about it. I found myself nodding and smiling and tearing up throughout. Slainte!
Ulu — so good to hear from you, my friend!!!! Aw, I love that reading this brought tears of joy. It’s been a crazy ride with this show — who would have known back in 2016 when we met on our Outlander Tour how important this would become to us both and so many others. Thank you so much for reading and especially for commenting. eans so much hearing from you. Here’s to a great start to the season — may it continue! Slainte!
I totally agree with everything you have written Anne. I so love the Outlander in Scotland episodes that as an English Sassenach I persuaded my Highland husband to move back to Scotland so that I could experience all things Scots for myself. We are actually living off grid on a remote Highland peninsula near to Ullapool and Inverness. I wanted to experience living that way of life, like going back in time. No roads or shops, travelling by foot or boat and of course lots of mud. Yesterday we visited Culloden again and I picture that haunting battle scene and the horror that befell the clans on that day. Outlander has changed my life forever. I love everything about it with an absolute passion. Like you have said however, it is the bagpipes, the Glens and history of the clans that stirs my heart the most. It’s magical
Ah, Linda — lovely to hear from you. Good for you for living your dreams. And, I hear you on the glens and the lochs and the absolute beauty of the remoteness. We are kindred spirits, I think. Thank you so much for reading and commenting. Outlander is a fascinating phenomenon — magical, really. Bravo to you for living your life this way and have to say, I am a bit envious. Tulard Ard and Slainte!
Great topic and piece, Anne! I remember my husband telling me to wake him up when we got back to Scotland during first half of S2, and I knew how he felt.
I was surprised by the extent to which the show left Scotland behind in S4, just when Highlanders were someplace they were free to be again. Book fans and solely show fans alike were always unanimous in their love of setting and the attraction of the culture. Media reviews possibly more so.
Historically, Scots brought their language and culture with them to NC. I didn’t see why OL couldn’t do the same. I thought of so many little things that would have maintained their roots as proud Scots. And here they are!! I am beyond thrilled. The only thing that would make me happier would be too see Gaelic Consultant in the credits again ?.
Diane — well, I do think Season 4 played it somewhat accurately — in that many Scots left Scotland stripped of their culture and their traditions and arrived in the colonies also governed by the English. I think many tried to assimilate and therefore didn’t openly wave their Scottish heritage about. But, it was time for the kilt to come back and Jamie did that in spectacular fashion. And, actually, I thought I did see the Gaelic Consultant credit…but maybe I am wrong??? Most importantly, thank you for reading and commenting. Means a lot. Hopefully a lot more discussion as the season moves forward! Slainte!
Hi Anne:
Yes, yes and yes. I loved this episode and your blog post. Almost all of last season I was just pining for Scotland and the Outlander I loved. I think that’s why I have a fondness for Season 3’s Down the Rabbit Hole.
This episode brought back so many callbacks to earlier episodes, and I couldn’t be happier.
It seems even the music went from Dixieland to Scottish (almost church like) chants, and it really sets the mood.
Finally, finally finally the Frasiers remembered they were Scots after all: I so loved seeing Jamie dress in his kilt once more to light the fiery cross and take oaths. Oh God, that amazing inspiring Scottish Tune from Season 2’s Prestonpans as he was getting ready gave me chills.
I thought that Claire and Jamie’s flashback to their own wedding while Bree and Roger were reciting their vows was so emotional. Their vow to each other “Till Death do us part” after all of their years together was even more romantic than Bree and Roger.
You could just hear Jamie saying “our life is not done,” underneath it all.
Only Jamie and Claire trying to make love silently while babysitting can make sitting for a baby look so sexy!
I may be a little bit biased though, I’m now reading Outlander as well as watching the show!
I’m still not finished, and it does explain some things that the show does not.
By the way, do you find book Claire to be much more emotional than show Claire? I am curious. I
absolutely do. Has anyone ever written a blog post comparing the two?
Just some thoughts
Dawn
Hey, Dawn — love all your comments about this spectacular Season 5 Premiere episode. Good question about Book Claire vs. Show Claire. I think Cait has made this character her own. Show Claire definitely has some differences with Book Claire. I think Book Claire is actually funnier. I have only read through about half of Fiery Cross — so, I probably wouldn’t be the best person to write this blog post but it’s an interesting idea. Thanks you for reading and commenting. Always love to hear what you have to say. More Season 1 call-backs, please 🙂 Cheers!
I’ll be honest- I was happily reading along with my bride in these books right up until this one. Fiery Cross jumps the shark hard when it comes to #poorroger. I had to put to down and came back to it months later when the sense of omg unbelieveable had left me – I still read the book with a sense of disbelief – which then followed me all through the rest. I only read them to have a common experience with my bride – who has read them three times now I think.
Interesting series –