What did I love about Jamie? His honestly and how in touch he was with his own emotion. The fact that he was so much in love with Claire that he gathered all the data possible so he knew everything about her (including knowing when her "courses" were about probably better than she did) yet all that data gathering was almost in the background. She had plenty of space to be herself. I loved that he was intelligent, funny, he thought things out, he took a leap of faith with Claire and believed her story about the stones without proof, loved how much family meant to him, how much his clan meant to him - he was loyal and he wasn't afraid to kill someone if they became too much of a real threat to his loved ones. Jamie is the typical archetype, the knight in shining armor that in being in his presence you feel safe.
Jay Littleton well he's Jamies godfather or in Gaelic goistidh . He loved Ellen Jamies mother so loves Jamie more because of that fact feels like he's his son and since Brian isn't there to do so is very protective very special relationship my own godfather is like that towards me so this reminds of that !
I think Ep 15 and 16 is saved from being just gratuitous rape and violence, by how they show first how Randall breaks Jamie piece by piece, methodically (sadistically) and uses Jamie's love for Claire as a tool to do this. Then they show the impact of this torture on Jamie and the efforts to bring him back and begin to heal him. Not many shows will spend any time on the aftermath of rape (nor would they think of raping the HERO of the show). I think very brave of the network and Actors to do this. Hope you can catch up on Season 2 so that you can watch Season 3 with everyone else! Enjoy the Outlander Vid's so much!
k Racine I totally totally agree. It's done in a way that draws it out. Shocking us slowly and painfully. A brilliant piece of cinematography and storytelling
Shaun and how Tobias ( black jack /frank ) sam ( Jamie ) and Caitriona ( Claire ) didn't win Emmys or baftas based on those episodes alone is beyond me !
Well, Outlander is considered "for women". You know a woman travels back in time and falls in love with a very good looking highlander. It sounds like the typical cheesy story. I'm sure many critics (that happen to be men most of them) only watched the first episode if they watched any.
Ashley S. MacKenzie totally agree but I think we can say bjr is sadistic and uses Jamies love for Claire to dominate him and break his spirit he just didn't count on Jamies Celtic warrior spirit and Claire's determination and resolve to get him back to the man he was and their love for each other which is why the last episode is called to ransom a mans soul but I think the fact Claire doesn't let Jamie give up on himself says a lot about their relationship to me and her strength of will and her love for Jamie another reason she does so is they are about to be parents
My Mother in law introduced me to the Outlander series when I told her I identify with my Scottish ancestry more so than my French ancestry. My Great Grand-Da MacIntosh came over from Inverness, Scotland when he was 16, and he passed away 5 days before my 3rd birthday. According to my grandmother, he took to me like we've always known each other. She told me that whenever I was brought over, he would basically steal me from my parents and wouldn't let me go. He spoke Gaelic to me. So I remember a little bit, and am trying to learn the language. Hoping to pass it along to my kids someday.
I think they cast the perfect people for all the characters. For some reason, Murtagh was one of my favorites. Duke of Sandringham was played brilliantly! Black Jack is so depraved, I cannot stand him. You always know he's going to do something diabolical because he makes this certain face right before. Claire gets everyone in alot of trouble, constantly, it's no wonder the men have mixed feelings about her. I cannot think of anyone who didn't do a marvelous job of acting. Shaun you have somewhat of a surprise coming later, regarding Black Jack and Frank. Watching season 1 over again, I always skip Wentworth prison, one view of that horrible thing happening is quite enough.
Ashley S. MacKenzie I never trusted the duke for one second ever since we hear the reverend and frank discussing him in the beginning of season 1 what a weasel !
Having read the books multiple times, the tv series has brought the characters to life for me. I thoroughly enjoy watching the show and can't wait for season 3. I recently found your blog and really enjoy hearing your perspective on Scotland and Outlander.
I happened to see a video of you in my news feed and I watched the first two episodes about a year ago and it didn't really grow on me. Thanks to you and your passionate vlogging I thought about giving it a go again. Now I am on episode 11 of series/season 1 and I love it! Outlander got a new fan thanks to you! 😃
I love how much you enjoy the show; i talked my husband into watching it and now he's hooked. When he and I visited Scotland a few years ago, he thought we were merely on a fun holiday, but I knew I was there looking for things that Jamie & Claire had seen! Well, that and to have some nice single malts.
I really enjoyed your review. I am American and knew nothing about the story or books when I started watching it on demand, and I quickly got hooked. I appreciated your comment about how Black Jack's behavior shows the negative effect of the British Empire, I hadn't thought of that before and it really makes sense. In addition to the characters you mention, I love Murtagh.
You are right Shaun, the Redcoats did some terrible things to the people of the highlands. However, what was between Jack and Jamie was completely different. It was personal for Jack. He didn't want Jamie dead, he wanted Jamie defenseless, and ground to the dust. (figuratively). Jack wanted his body and his soul beyond all other things, even war. The acting was amazing. Frank, I believe, has some of Black Jack's traits. You could see it in the way he beat the 2 men that were trying to rob him and in the way he treated the women who helped them. He seemed to enjoy it or at the very least unable to help himself.
YEAH - When you take into account half of them were Scottish troops fighting on behalf of the British Government and they comitted a lot of the attrocities, it makes you think. However The Lord Advocate of Scotland at the time was NO Jacobite and had a lot of land grabbing pals.
You should meet up with Adhamh O'Broin as he was/is the Gaelic consultant on the show. He lives near Glasgow and has a presence online. He has come to the US a couple of times and was able to give us some talks about his experience and his desire to restore the Scottish Gaelic to his home country. You would get along very well!
yea outlander was supposed to be aired in the UK in 2014 but David cameron the english PM said to sony to delay it cause he feared that it would make people in scotland vote for independence in 2014
i can imagin lol o you can't air that we will loose the UK union and those bloody scots will flourish under independence while we will just be little old england with no power anymore we have to stop anything that might give the scots ambition of a better future and pump them with lies thru the BBC,STV and Sky news as much as we can thats pretty much what i imagine
i personally feel that the scottish goverment should just impose UDI (unilateral declaration of Independence) if the english goverment come back with no deal for brexit
Tobias Menzies (Frank/Black Jack) is an amazingly talented actor. As much as I love to hate Black Jack, if it weren't for his skill at portraying him with such depth and nuance the evilness of the character would be rather flat. The same goes for his portrayal of Frank. In the books I find Frank rather irritating, and can't wait for Claire to get back to Jamie, but in the series you feel Frank's heartbreak, and his love and concern for Claire (at least in Season 1. I haven't finished season 2.. the mid season sobfest stops me cold).
silverlightx6 I 100% agree with you! Tobias Menzies does an absolutely amazing job of bringing so much to an already deep character. BJR is probably one of my all time favorite villains...ever.
✨Amen to that!🙌 I made a comment earlier in this thread somewhere to the same effect. BJR is the character you (eventually) "love to hate." Brilliant acting by Tobias Menzies.✨
Jamie Lee would you expect anything less of a RADA trained actor like Tobias though ? RADA ( royal academy of dramatic arts ) has produced some of England's finest actors for a long time think people like Colin firth , Peter o'Toole , sir Laurence Olivier sir John Gielgud the list goes on so the fact Tobias is a graduate of there and is able to subtly change his performance when playing frank and bjr is just good old fashioned talent it's slight but enough of a difference that although frank is of the same bloodline he has none of black jacks sadistic tendencies but more of his true ancestor Alex ( black jacks brother ) in his temperant and Tobias shows us that just as much as he displays jacks sadism and that takes talent I agree !
I'm an African American female and I'm REALLY loving this series. I'm a history buff and it's perfect for me. We've been wanting to travel to Scotland for some time and this show as confirmed my desire to visit. Not only for the history but because it seems like the Scottish people are so welcoming and warm. It helps that I no issue understanding their accent :)
Outlander is the best series Iv ever watched! What a thrilling ride! I’m half way through season 2 and can’t get enough! Certainly helping with passing the time in lockdown. 😁
It's great to hear what you think! I'm from Australia, and have always had an interest in film, the arts and history, and when I stumbled upon Outlander a yr and a half ago, I just thought it was one of the most amazing productions I've ever seen telling one of the greatest stories I've ever heard - and I still think that to this day. The story on it's own, DG's books, are incredible, but I think the series is definitely doing it justice so far - I love how they are so committed to doing everything they can to make things historically authentic, like it would've really happened, and that all makes it such a great learning experience - that the smallest of details that they include actually probably would've been the same back then ! And of course, this story has taught me so much about Scotland. I honestly love the history of your people and your culture, and it's been wonderful and moving to learn about it! It's great to hear that Outlander has even brought about a learning experience for you as well ! Favourite characters...was taken aback about your mention of JBR haha, but it does make sense that without him, DG wouldn't have explored the depths of Jamie's and Claire's characters and the way he is intertwined in the story is such a pivotal and genius part! I love Jamie of course, and enjoyed watching Angus and Murtagh so much on screen. Also loved Geilis and her mystery, her character was so intriguing! And Mrs. Fitz x I also have a huge respect for the actors and the wonderful service each one of them has done to the characters. Well I've written a lot there, but I'm reading Voyager atm and it is so so great so far, competing with my love of the first book and season! But it really is a great story being told exploring many truths about life that are seldom covered in one go I guess and the show is doing a wonderful job of putting it on screen ! And it's great that it's sharing a lot about Scotland and what some of its people have been through in the past, and doing that justice and giving it respect also.
I love Outlander. I read the books before watching the show. Usually when I do that I love the books and have lot of criticism about the show, but Outlander is the best adaptation for tv I’ve ever seen. I didn’t dislike the show in any moment. The books also made me interested in Scottish history and culture, which I knew little about. For some reason I identify a lot with Scotland, even though I’ve never been there.
That was a great review. I am so glad that you understand the need to show the gory reality of the times, of occupation, of war. So many people complain about that part. As a history buff, I want that reality. I am so glad that you like the show so much and understand how brilliant Diana is and the cast and crew of the show. The acting, sets, photography, and music are brilliant. I came to the books first and was worried that a show could not capture it but they have done a spectacular job. They have changed some things that I don't like but overall it is wonderful. I really do hope that now that Scotland gets to see it that it will spark interest in the Scottish people for your history.
My Monroe ancestor was transported to America after the Battle of Worcester (1651). My Bole ancestor emigrated in the later half of the 1700's. I had my DNA done and was shocked to see that I am twenty-six percent Scandinavian. I visited Scotland a few years ago and our tour guide explained the link between the Nordic countries and many of the Scottish people. Diana Gabaldon, in her books, even makes reference to Jaimie's Viking features. Mrs. Fitz is a great character from the show.
Yay, I'm glad you loved it :) The scenes with Black Jack were certainly hard to watch, but written so well and acted brilliantly. I think many of us fans don't pay enough dues to Tobias Menzies. What it must take him to get into such a character. And to play two characters in the one show. But I am totally team Jamie! 😂 Whether that is because I can't look at Frank now and not see Jack, which I'm sure must have been in Claire's mind too, or because Jamie is just so much more. I personally really love the Scottish accent and atire (and you would do us all a great honour if you would wear a kilt for your Outlander location tours!!!), I think his devotion to Claire is on another level to Frank's. You feel it in every scene. The way he looks at her. The way he defends her. And especially because of the times, the way he celebrates her own achievements and doesn't hide her in the kitchen, so to speak. The scene at Leoch, when he pledges to her that their marriage must be different to those before their's and that he will never punish her like that again, that is really powerful. Frank is a man of his time completely, but Jamie seems like he is beyond his time, wanting equality in their relationship is beyond even Frank's time. Have you seen any behind the scenes film on how the do Collum's legs and Ian's leg? It's interesting. Love from Australia 😄
I have read most of the books. I stopped because I wanted to be enthralled in the Series, WHICH I LOVE. I would highly recommend reading the books. To answer your questions. My Mother's side of the Family where ALL Scottish. Her maiden name is Wood. My Daughter and I are researching the Wood and Prine side of our Family. I have loved and been drawn to Scotland for as far back as I can remember. I was the only 5 year old in Maryland that owned a complete album of Bagpipes playing Celtic music. I was the only child in public school who loved wearing Tartan skirts, pants, etc....Luckily it was the '70's. My Favorite Book from age six is "Wuthering Heights". As for Sam/Jamie, personally, I love Gingers. Scottish men have that rugged jawline and look Sexy in Kilts. Seriously, nothing is more Sexy than a Ginger Scotsman wearing a Kilt made from his Clan's Tartan. BTW, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE YOUR VLOGS! Bless you and keep on doing a TERRIFIC job. Hugs!
✨*Sharon*: Funny ... I can't imagine a woman being attracted to a 6'4" ginger Scotsman with a rugged jawline, the body of a Greek god, wearing a full kilt made from his clan's tartan, wielding a sword like Thor and making love like Casanova.😉 Then, again, as my wife often occasionally (albeit sweetly) reminds me, her future husband is Jamie Fraser.🤗 I can't say I blame her. Diana Gabaldon created a love story for the ages with Jamie and Claire; and they could not have been cast better. Outlander is a stunning body of work. *Shaun*: As you already know, TwinkleMom and I second Sharon's thoughts about your vlogs - they're outstanding!🙌✨
Love this review! My Dad was born in Edinburgh and have visited back and forth every few years. This series, in a way makes you even prouder to be Scottish. And makes me even more excited to come back to Edinburgh for 3 mths over Christmas
Jamie is such a heart throb because he isn't hyper masculine like the men on cheesy romamce novel book covers. He is sweet, he's imperfect, he's vulnerable and therefore compelling!
Thank you Shaun, I absolutely love your vlogs! I too am captivated by the series and love the informative insight into the History of Scotland and The Clans! So strange that is not taught in schools! I love, love, love my Scottish heritage and wear it as a badge of honor. Looking forward to all of your future vlogs:) Greetings from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA! Ps...Yes, you do share the handsome ginger ruggedness that Jaime possesses:) Now you just need to do a future vlogs in a kilt😃🔥
My wife started me on this show and surprised me on how interesting this drama was made. She was mainly drawn into the show because of her fascination for her Scottish roots. Even though I thought this was going to be a sappy romantic soap it turned out to be a brilliant exposure to historical events. I truly enjoy the characters and their nuances. I definitely agree with you on your reaction to it. I bet Scotland has benefited greatly from the spike in tourism due to the show. Scotland is definitely one of my future travel destinations. Thanks Shaun 🙏🏾
Season 1 was wonderful. Season 2 was even more gripping. It leaves a cliff hanger at the end, which is why we are patiently (impatiently?) waiting for Season 3. Of course, if I had read the books I would know what would be happening next. But, alas, I haven't. lol One thing that Outlander made me wonder was what side of the Jacobite Rebellion might my family have been on? I could make a snap judgement due to the location I know that some of my family came from, but that might not be accurate.
The Jacobites were trying to instate King James as King . He and the Jacobites were Catholic. They were trying to over throw King William of Orange who was Protestant. Thats the short easy way to describe that period in our history. In theory if you are Catholic then your ancestors were probably Jacobite and loyal to King James and if protestant then probably they were loyal to King William. I say probably because in these times these rules were not hard and fast as some families were forced into one side or the other by the laird of the land they lived on based on his own beliefs. Thats getting into the more complicated side of it now. :)
silverbluegoddess depends whether they were highlanders or lowlanders as not all highlanders got involved and the lowlanders tended to be more in favour of king George and fought on the government side if they were in the risings at all I only know this as I was researching it from the viewpoint of my second cousins as they have Scottish ancestry through their dad whose the cousin of my dad they are Macleods so I researched it for them !
Hey Shaun, I just watched your vlogs about your tour of (a wee part of) the U.S. In much the same way that Outlander has you looking at your Scottish heritage in a new way, your take on American culture took me down an interesting new line of thought about America. I love all this cross-cultural exploration! Since you love the U.S. so much I can't wait for you to read the Outlander books (book 4 and on) about them building a life in North Carolina! The Scottish immigrants had such a profound influence on the making of this country. Could the defeat at Culloden and the subsequent decimation of Scottish culture at home have been the key factor for victory over the English here? Keep up the thought provoking commentary.
If I was already missing the books, and the series, you made me want to pick them even more! What I love about Jamie, especially from the books, is his sense of humor, along side with is family values, and Sam Heughan was just such a great cast as Jamie! You'll see when you get to the books ;) The thing about Diana is...whenever you think she can't do worst to the characters? Well...she does. Really loved you review of the 1st season.
Amazing series and brutal final couple of episodes, not many series can get you to feel what the characters are going through as if it's happening to you! Gonna be having nightmares for a while, cheers Randall!
Hey, Shaun! Love your videos! Don't forget to mention the soundtrack! OMG! The Skye Boat Song is so... I can't find a word... More than beautiful! I keep listening to it. And the rest of the soundtrack as well is wonderful. I love Bear McCreary's work in Outlander and The Walking Dead. He's a genius!!
Enjoyed your recap of Season 1 of Outlander from your Scottish perspective. This show was the catalyst for me visiting Scotland 2 years ago. I loved it and want to go back!
I listened to the books on audible. The narrator did an amazing job and I was able to "read" the nine books in the series while driving, cleaning, etc. Highly recommend listening to them.
Recently travelled to Scotland, loved it immensely. It's really nice to see that Scotland loves the show too (instead of being upset and thinking that Scotland is now just a tourist destination, like Twilight did for Washington). Love your review, keep on vlogging because I will be watching. By the way love the flannel!
I was fascinated by Scottish history after seeing Braveheart. I know it was fiction but it had a lot about clans. My family is from the O'Carroll clan in Ireland, so that movie and Outlander have sparked my interest in that as well. I am loving Outlander... so obsessed that I'm paying extra every month for the premium TV channel that carries it. It's the only reason I have that channel. lol What we love about Jamie? He's strong, he's honorable, his love is all-encompassing, and he's loyal to Scotland, his wife, his family and those he cares about. He seems the perfect man. I love anything medieval and this show thrusts you back in time... you feel as if you're there. You feel the angst, the unrest, how vulnerable people are. As far as the novels... when you read them you'll see they pull you even further in.
Jamie, physically, *is* an extremely attractive man, but what I find most attractive about him is actually just the way he loves. How attentive, admiring, and loyal he is. How many people get to be loved like that - not just in the beginning, but always?
Hi Shaun! I absolutely love your videos because 1) I'm from Brazil (and you have such a special bond with my country) 2) I have Scottish ancestry 3) I LOVE Outlander. I can't wait for your new videos in Scotland :)
You'll like Colum even better in the books. DG does a great job at reminding the reader that Colum commands the room when he speaks. At some point she says that although his body is wasting, he can look you in the eye and the strength of his spirit is all you see.
Beautiful Scottish accent You have Pal. I am not even from England. But I am fascinated of any culture that came from this beautiful Island:)A 5y visit and live in Yorkshire changed my mind totally about people from there, I met many scotish folks there:)
I love Outlander! I went to Scotland in January, and never wanted to leave! I nearly cried when we flew to our next destination because I never wanted to leave! I didn't get to visit many place they filmed at (thanks to my aunt's "spectacular" navigating of British roads), but my highlights were definitely seeing Culloden and Edinburgh. Edinburgh is by far my favorite city in the world. I was so mad the day after we visited Edinburgh because I found out they were filming there that Tuesday and Thursday, but not the Wednesday we were in town. They were filming on the Royal Mile, where I was, and I missed it! Perfect timing self! I love your videos! I just binged a bunch of them, and you've earned yourself a new subscriber! Can't wait to see more! I love your passion for you home country, it's really refreshing to see!
I read the books when they first came out years ago. I was glued to each page. The story took me to another place, far from my bedroom where I was reading. It was truly an escape to a different time and place. I can't tell you how much I cried, laughed and felt compelled to pick up a standard to fight for the clan. Lol! I'm happy to find others enjoy the books and now the series as much as I have. I must admit that it has made my Scottish blood rise to the top!
After reading the first book, I started researching Scottish history and was amazed at how much there was! "Leaving troubles behind!" Hahaha!!! There is so much more in the books! Prepare yourself for many more surprises! Then there's Season 2 ->!! LOVE your vlog, Shaun!
I just finished the novels and all I can say is I feel a sense of loss. Like a part of my life is missing. How could a series do this to me?! I'm gutted it's over until I remembered that the next season starts in September!!! I'm totally enjoying your blogs! I can't believe you weren't taught about your history Shaun. Thanks and keep up the great work!!
It's kind of surreal that a word (sassenach) that can be used as an almost slur in some archaic contexts now becomes a sexy pet name a Scottish person might call their non-Scottish other half because of this TV show? Yeh I call my Italian American Wife a Sassenach. She is into it. :D . I can wait till season three.
My school had us do a clan project where we not only learned about each others clans, but about the entire feudal clan system. It's a shame you didn't.
Hi Shaun, it has been a great job what you have decided to make. Talk about of this wonderful TV serie. As you are a Scottish, your opinion does a very interesting at the same time arouse our curiosity. Congratulations!! And please go on!!
I'm so glad I've discovered your channel. I'm a huge fan of Outlander, which made me discover this beautiful country you call Scotland. I'm even planning to move in Edinburgh before the next summer, if my finances allow me to lol. Outlander immediatly spoke to me since I'm Bretonne (Brittany, west of France, which is a celtic nation). The show perfectly depicts what is written in the books (currently reading the third one). Can't wait for the next season !
Thank you for your reaction videos. I really wanted to know what Scottish people thought of the series. I am shocked and not shocked that you were not taught much about your history. Pretty much the same thing happens here in the US. My parents were in the Japanese internment camps during the war, and they never mentioned it at all in history class.
I grew up in Scotland, and a history teacher was telling us about the '45' in 1965 at Grove Academy in Broughty Ferry before the family moved back to Glasgow. The main thing this history teacher ( A Scotsman)said we Must remember.-' It was NOT a war between the English and the Scots and that many of the Government Troops (Redcoats) were Scottish from Scottish Regiments'. It is a historical fact I have found since to be true and one which even highlanders I have met over many years testify to,in fact there were Englishmen in the Princes ranks.
I love how open you are to this and how full your review is. It is so oooo oooo good. And I started the books after the show also. It did not disappoint.
The best thing is Dianna wrote Outlander just to write it. She never entened to show it to anyone. Now we're waiting for Season 3 and a 9th novel. I was given Outlander (the book) in 1993, I read it for a book report in 12th grade. I flew through it so fast I also I read Dragonfly In Amber. I got an unusual A+ on that report (that incidentally made me pass English). And now here we are today. When you do read the series, do a review on them as well. I'd like to hear what you have to say on those.
I was amazed when I found that out. She did it as a personal exercise to see if she could write it. Previously, Diana mostly did technical writing for software reviews.
I read the first book and The show is really a fleshed out version of the book. It's faithful on the books. One of my favorite quote/scene is when Claire asked Jamie if he bothers that she's not virgin anymore. Then Jamie replied "Well no..... so lo as it doesnae bother you that I am." It's just so innocent and romantic that it makes me blush.
As I told you, Shaun, a horrible ride through all the feels. Wife & I recently watched a brief interview with Ms. Gabaldon where she said that she wrote the first book to learn how to write a novel. She done good. I quite admire the character Murtagh for his loyalty to Jamie as well as Claire. Enjoy the series and as you Scots say "Haste ye pudding",,,,,,,,,, or something like that.
My husband and I are truly enjoying your vlogs! Really liking the plaid shirt, too. As far as Outlander, I read the novels and was thrilled to find that Starz was filming the series. When I was reading the novels, my honey was relentless in teasing me about my crush on a fictional character. You know often when you read books, you have a pretty solid idea as to how the characters look. When I saw the first episode, it was as if Jamie Fraser stepped out of the books and onto the screen. My husband began watching and now I can tease him as to his crush on the character Claire. Our favourite other character is, hands down, Murtagh. Great writing. Amazing casting. And the costumes are brilliant. Glad you are enjoying it thus far. Safe travels on your way home. The Smiths
Gayla Smith Gayla, thank you so much for watching and your comments. Means a lot to me 😊 and I agree - the realness of these characters is what makes it special
Dougal is the guy that I loved at first, then hated him, then loved him again, then....you get it. He did so many things to "redeem" himself, but ultimately he was an arse overall.
Being of Scottish descent, I was excited when I saw this coming to TV. I don't really see many Scottish shows to see my ancestry represented. I see plenty of English and Canadian shows or characters, but hardly Scottish. I'm really glad Outlander has made it to TV. I've tried reading the first book.... We'll leave it there.
This was wonderful, good job! It may interest you to know that Scottish Festivals happen all over the US. My Mother, who was a Presbyterian Woman for Life, a huge honor in the US Presbyterian Church, was always involved in organizing the Scottish festival in my old hometown. She was so proud of her own ancestry, and so am I. The books are very good, and you should at least read the first three. Things take a turn after that, but the characters remain.
It's hard for me to watch letting Black Jack go when they have chance after chance to end his evil. One of the greatest lines of the Good, Bad, and Ugly was Tuco saying after he shoots the man lecturing him. He says "if you're going to shoot don't talk. If your going to shoot, shoot don't talk." Jack Randall kicks Claire, off with his head, don't talk or run away. Jamie is so frustrating.
I am proud to call myself a Scottish Canadian. I own two kilts and wear them at important occasions. The first person of my family who came to Canada came here because he was run out of of Scotland after the final. We originally came from just northwest of Aberdeen.
I'm watching you since few videos now, and watched some of your past ones. Not that relatable to this topic, but must say, I really enjoy your dialect. I'm not a native speaker, but Scottish dialects are the best regarding the ability of understanding for me. You guys speak very openly, articulate beautifully, I mean so much i and e sounds, just like my native language. It is also nice to hear and learn new area specific words! Thank you for your work! :)
Cool video. It's nice to hear from a Scottish person about outlander. Outlander and game of thrones r really the only shows I watch on tv. Probably cause there based off really good books, but it's also nice to see a video with a guy talking about outlander. All I can find r women which isn't bad but it's cool to know I'm not the only guy that likes the show. U should do more outlander videos
Why I love Jamie? He is a MAN. He is what I consider the perfect man. His growth and character is one part of why I read and re-read, listen to audio...over and over again..all eight books so far. I honestly can not stress enough, that if you love the show, you will be sucked in and become an addict once you read the books because there is SO much more detail that is lacking in the show. There's a ton more of Jamie, more humor, more tears, more nail biting tension in the books than in the show, too.
Hey Shaun, thanks for your insider's perspective on Outlander, I was, like many others, very curious to hear a Scottish reaction about the series. To answer your question, what I find appealing about Jamie is his accent of course, and well, we can't argue he is a handsome ginger man. As you do, I really like Angus too, as he enlightens the heavy feelings of the series sometimes. Oh and by the way you might change your mind in season 2 about Colum, then change it again (that's what it did for me at least!) As you said, season 1 finale is quite something indeed, but wait for season 2 last episode, you'll be on ye arse! ;)
Loved Season 1 (and Season 2). I started watching it when More4 started airing it in July and then went out and bought the bluray boxset of Seasons 1 and 2 as I needed to watch it and not have to wait, plus not having bloody adds was a bonus
Hurry up you've only got another month to power through season 2 before season 3 drops! Bizarrely my Scottish husband finished season 1 today, too. He's fully locked in. Told y'all it was a good show!
Seeing Outlander made me curious about the John Prebble histories (Glencoe, Culloden, The Highland Clearances, Mutiny) I purchased when I traveled through Scotland in 1978 as a 22 year old travelling by bicycle and train. So I have just finished reading them. Wow, so interesting. The clans had much in common with our North American Indians: the warrior culture and values. I know that one of my great-grandfathers was a Murray, and that his grandfather came to Canada in the late 1700's. I think it might be impossible to trace him to his exact Scottish origins. He named his first daughter Alta (Gaelic for Scotland, I believe). So I find I am suddenly having a great surge of Scottish pride..... even though it is only a pinch of salt's worth.
Haha I'm pretty sure Outlander filtered into my search because I'm doing research on my own Scottish heritage. I'm from America but have recently traced my maiden name to the Glasgow area in the 1700's. Not sure about clans or anything yet, but I've loved learning about Scottish history 😊
have you noticed one thing about scots that they will talk shyte about scotland and we laugh but as soon as some else says shyte about scotland and we say here it my be shyte but its my shyte. like i will say shit about Elgin cause iv lived here for so long but anyone else says its shyte i start to defend elgin lol
Glad you seemed to enjoy the series so far. LOOOOOVED the books. The series is very good, but the books are better. ;) I like that antlered deer decal (?) behind you on the wall, where did you get that from?
Hi Shaun! I'm an American of Scottish descent (My mother's maiden name is McKay), so I've always been interested in all things Scottish. Im very much enjoying this series of vlogs. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. I find them fascinating. By the way, I'm a gay msn, and I also found the rape scene with Jamie and Jack very disturbing. I have a question. Do you speak any Gaelic? I've been trying to learn for several years and find it to be very difficult. Anyway, thanks again for sharing your thoughts with us! I look forward to more!
Hi Shaun I am also loving the Television programme Outlander, but always remember that this is a fantasy story told against the background of historical facts. As the old saying goes, ‘History is written by the victors’ Well not always! As you have said, you were not taught about the history of Scotland at school, but interesting as this TV fantasy is, it is not the history of the Scotland. A little about my interest. My name is Tony, my family, on my mothers side is Clan Home, although through a quirk of mature I was born in Yorkshire England, my parents are both economic migrants from Scotland and I am proud of my Scottish heritage. My Clan are lowland Scots from the boarders and fought for the English at the battle of Prestonpans, just outside of Edinburgh. What the Outlander Series is not explaining very well, is that the conflict was a religious as well as political one. The Hanoverian Royal family were Protestants who had been invited into England by wealthy aristocrats to save them from a Catholic Monarchy. Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) had a more legitimate claim to the thrown of Britain through bloodlines, being the Grandson of the Roman Catholic James II of England and VII of Scotland who had fled into exile in France. The Highland Clans were also Roman Catholics and so were many people in England who supported King James II (The Jacobites). King George and his family were still very nervous about keeping their hands on the British thrown and so he sent is soldier brother Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland (Butcher Cumberland) up to Scotland to keep the Catholic King and his supporters from knocking him off the royal seat. My family were protestants, so were swept up in the support of the German claim to the thrown. Many members of my family were killed in this war. Interestingly there were more Scotsmen killed by fellow Scots than by the English, as Cumberland conscripted a lot of his army from the lowland Scots. This was the same Royal Family who fought the Jacobite army in Ireland and started the whole conflict over there too. You are from Edinburgh, I wonder which side you would have fought for at the time if any? Many residents of Edinburgh would have witnessed armies of both sides coming and going as they tried to keep their heads down and make a day to day living. This conflict can still be witnessed every Saturday when Celtic play Rangers at Soccer! Outlander is a cracking good production though and well worth the watch.
I thought that on the contrary, Outlander did explain very well that the conflict had a religious nature and many Scotts (including Jamie himself, even though he is Catholic Highlander) weren't eager to join the Jacobite cause. He and Claire actually spent half of season 2 trying to prevent the rebellion from happening altogether. It was also political because many clan chiefs hoped to gain more power and privelege if Stuarts returned to power, and also closer relations with predominantly Catholic countries like Italy and France. This, again, is very well shown in Season 2. It was never mentioned in the show that the conflict was about independence from England, lots of talk about "returning the rightful ruler to the throne" though. If you actually watched the show, you couldn't have missed that.
Im chuckling at the point where you talk about Frank and BJR, and if BJRs darkness reaches Frank. It's so great to hear a none book reader talk and to be still unaware of what's to come.
What did I love about Jamie? His honestly and how in touch he was with his own emotion. The fact that he was so much in love with Claire that he gathered all the data possible so he knew everything about her (including knowing when her "courses" were about probably better than she did) yet all that data gathering was almost in the background. She had plenty of space to be herself.
I loved that he was intelligent, funny, he thought things out, he took a leap of faith with Claire and believed her story about the stones without proof, loved how much family meant to him, how much his clan meant to him - he was loyal and he wasn't afraid to kill someone if they became too much of a real threat to his loved ones.
Jamie is the typical archetype, the knight in shining armor that in being in his presence you feel safe.
Cassie Banks great reply. So my scottish accent along won't suffice 🤣
His Honesty? Come on!! He's gorgeous!
Don't forget Murtagh!! Yes I'm biased and we're Irish not Scottish but he's one of my favorites
Donald Murtagh Murtagh, of course, how could I forget. Great character!!!
I like the great loyalty that Murtagh holds to Jaime and to Claire as Jaime's wife.
Murtagh is best human, both in books and series he is so loyal and kind and selfless.
Jay Littleton well he's Jamies godfather or in Gaelic goistidh . He loved Ellen Jamies mother so loves Jamie more because of that fact feels like he's his son and since Brian isn't there to do so is very protective very special relationship my own godfather is like that towards me so this reminds of that !
Jay Littleton You have to remember, Jamie is as good as his son in his mind because of his love for Jamie's mom.
I think Ep 15 and 16 is saved from being just gratuitous rape and violence, by how they show first how Randall breaks Jamie piece by piece, methodically (sadistically) and uses Jamie's love for Claire as a tool to do this. Then they show the impact of this torture on Jamie and the efforts to bring him back and begin to heal him. Not many shows will spend any time on the aftermath of rape (nor would they think of raping the HERO of the show). I think very brave of the network and Actors to do this. Hope you can catch up on Season 2 so that you can watch Season 3 with everyone else! Enjoy the Outlander Vid's so much!
k Racine I totally totally agree. It's done in a way that draws it out. Shocking us slowly and painfully. A brilliant piece of cinematography and storytelling
Shaun and how Tobias ( black jack /frank ) sam ( Jamie ) and Caitriona ( Claire ) didn't win Emmys or baftas based on those episodes alone is beyond me !
k Racine I think Gabaldon did an amazing job to show the true sadism and control that rape typically tends to be about--absolutely brilliantly done.
Well, Outlander is considered "for women". You know a woman travels back in time and falls in love with a very good looking highlander. It sounds like the typical cheesy story. I'm sure many critics (that happen to be men most of them) only watched the first episode if they watched any.
Ashley S. MacKenzie totally agree but I think we can say bjr is sadistic and uses Jamies love for Claire to dominate him and break his spirit he just didn't count on Jamies Celtic warrior spirit and Claire's determination and resolve to get him back to the man he was and their love for each other which is why the last episode is called to ransom a mans soul but I think the fact Claire doesn't let Jamie give up on himself says a lot about their relationship to me and her strength of will and her love for Jamie another reason she does so is they are about to be parents
My Mother in law introduced me to the Outlander series when I told her I identify with my Scottish ancestry more so than my French ancestry. My Great Grand-Da MacIntosh came over from Inverness, Scotland when he was 16, and he passed away 5 days before my 3rd birthday. According to my grandmother, he took to me like we've always known each other. She told me that whenever I was brought over, he would basically steal me from my parents and wouldn't let me go. He spoke Gaelic to me. So I remember a little bit, and am trying to learn the language. Hoping to pass it along to my kids someday.
Makintosh is one of the clans in Brave
Hello, I guess you like the movie
I think they cast the perfect people for all the characters. For some reason, Murtagh was one of my favorites. Duke of Sandringham was played brilliantly! Black Jack is so depraved, I cannot stand him. You always know he's going to do something diabolical because he makes this certain face right before. Claire gets everyone in alot of trouble, constantly, it's no wonder the men have mixed feelings about her. I cannot think of anyone who didn't do a marvelous job of acting. Shaun you have somewhat of a surprise coming later, regarding Black Jack and Frank. Watching season 1 over again, I always skip Wentworth prison, one view of that horrible thing happening is quite enough.
Kathy Brinkman oooooo Kathy, Im excited to see the story of Frank and Black Jack play out 😮
Shaun let's just say it's halfway through season two that you'll get the surprise and leave it at that !
Kathy Brinkman OMG and once it comes 9ut you're like, "OMG, she even told us!"
Kathy Brinkman how could I forget Duke of Sandringham? He is excellent too
Ashley S. MacKenzie I never trusted the duke for one second ever since we hear the reverend and frank discussing him in the beginning of season 1 what a weasel !
Having read the books multiple times, the tv series has brought the characters to life for me. I thoroughly enjoy watching the show and can't wait for season 3. I recently found your blog and really enjoy hearing your perspective on Scotland and Outlander.
Martha Clark that's amazing, really glad you like the vlog 😊
I happened to see a video of you in my news feed and I watched the first two episodes about a year ago and it didn't really grow on me.
Thanks to you and your passionate vlogging I thought about giving it a go again.
Now I am on episode 11 of series/season 1 and I love it!
Outlander got a new fan thanks to you! 😃
Antje Neumann awwww that's so amazing to see Antje 🙌 I'm so excited UA-cam allows us to share these passions
I love how much you enjoy the show; i talked my husband into watching it and now he's hooked. When he and I visited Scotland a few years ago, he thought we were merely on a fun holiday, but I knew I was there looking for things that Jamie & Claire had seen! Well, that and to have some nice single malts.
I really enjoyed your review. I am American and knew nothing about the story or books when I started watching it on demand, and I quickly got hooked. I appreciated your comment about how Black Jack's behavior shows the negative effect of the British Empire, I hadn't thought of that before and it really makes sense. In addition to the characters you mention, I love Murtagh.
You are right Shaun, the Redcoats did some terrible things to the people of the highlands. However, what was between Jack and Jamie was completely different. It was personal for Jack. He didn't want Jamie dead, he wanted Jamie defenseless, and ground to the dust. (figuratively). Jack wanted his body and his soul beyond all other things, even war. The acting was amazing.
Frank, I believe, has some of Black Jack's traits. You could see it in the way he beat the 2 men that were trying to rob him and in the way he treated the women who helped them. He seemed to enjoy it or at the very least unable to help himself.
YEAH - When you take into account half of them were Scottish troops fighting on behalf of the British Government and they comitted a lot of the attrocities, it makes you think. However The Lord Advocate of Scotland at the time was NO Jacobite and had a lot of land grabbing pals.
You should meet up with Adhamh O'Broin as he was/is the Gaelic consultant on the show. He lives near Glasgow and has a presence online. He has come to the US a couple of times and was able to give us some talks about his experience and his desire to restore the Scottish Gaelic to his home country. You would get along very well!
yea outlander was supposed to be aired in the UK in 2014 but David cameron the english PM said to sony to delay it cause he feared that it would make people in scotland vote for independence in 2014
Kable Games ikr 😕
Kable Games I read about that too. I wish we knew exactly what was said in that conversation
i can imagin lol o you can't air that we will loose the UK union and those bloody scots will flourish under independence while we will just be little old england with no power anymore we have to stop anything that might give the scots ambition of a better future and pump them with lies thru the BBC,STV and Sky news as much as we can thats pretty much what i imagine
Shaun well with Brexit could be another referendum just a feeling I have !
i personally feel that the scottish goverment should just impose UDI (unilateral declaration of Independence) if the english goverment come back with no deal for brexit
Tobias Menzies (Frank/Black Jack) is an amazingly talented actor. As much as I love to hate Black Jack, if it weren't for his skill at portraying him with such depth and nuance the evilness of the character would be rather flat. The same goes for his portrayal of Frank. In the books I find Frank rather irritating, and can't wait for Claire to get back to Jamie, but in the series you feel Frank's heartbreak, and his love and concern for Claire (at least in Season 1. I haven't finished season 2.. the mid season sobfest stops me cold).
silverlightx6 I 100% agree with you!
Tobias Menzies does an absolutely amazing job of bringing so much to an already deep character. BJR is probably one of my all time favorite villains...ever.
✨Amen to that!🙌 I made a comment earlier in this thread somewhere to the same effect. BJR is the character you (eventually) "love to hate." Brilliant acting by Tobias Menzies.✨
Jamie Lee would you expect anything less of a RADA trained actor like Tobias though ? RADA ( royal academy of dramatic arts ) has produced some of England's finest actors for a long time think people like Colin firth , Peter o'Toole , sir Laurence Olivier sir John Gielgud the list goes on so the fact Tobias is a graduate of there and is able to subtly change his performance when playing frank and bjr is just good old fashioned talent it's slight but enough of a difference that although frank is of the same bloodline he has none of black jacks sadistic tendencies but more of his true ancestor Alex ( black jacks brother ) in his temperant and Tobias shows us that just as much as he displays jacks sadism and that takes talent I agree !
I'm an African American female and I'm REALLY loving this series. I'm a history buff and it's perfect for me. We've been wanting to travel to Scotland for some time and this show as confirmed my desire to visit. Not only for the history but because it seems like the Scottish people are so welcoming and warm. It helps that I no issue understanding their accent :)
Outlander is the best series Iv ever watched! What a thrilling ride! I’m half way through season 2 and can’t get enough! Certainly helping with passing the time in lockdown. 😁
So many wonderful things about Jamie..Hair,body and his voice.. And much much more.
It's great to hear what you think! I'm from Australia, and have always had an interest in film, the arts and history, and when I stumbled upon Outlander a yr and a half ago, I just thought it was one of the most amazing productions I've ever seen telling one of the greatest stories I've ever heard - and I still think that to this day. The story on it's own, DG's books, are incredible, but I think the series is definitely doing it justice so far - I love how they are so committed to doing everything they can to make things historically authentic, like it would've really happened, and that all makes it such a great learning experience - that the smallest of details that they include actually probably would've been the same back then ! And of course, this story has taught me so much about Scotland. I honestly love the history of your people and your culture, and it's been wonderful and moving to learn about it! It's great to hear that Outlander has even brought about a learning experience for you as well ! Favourite characters...was taken aback about your mention of JBR haha, but it does make sense that without him, DG wouldn't have explored the depths of Jamie's and Claire's characters and the way he is intertwined in the story is such a pivotal and genius part! I love Jamie of course, and enjoyed watching Angus and Murtagh so much on screen. Also loved Geilis and her mystery, her character was so intriguing! And Mrs. Fitz x I also have a huge respect for the actors and the wonderful service each one of them has done to the characters. Well I've written a lot there, but I'm reading Voyager atm and it is so so great so far, competing with my love of the first book and season! But it really is a great story being told exploring many truths about life that are seldom covered in one go I guess and the show is doing a wonderful job of putting it on screen ! And it's great that it's sharing a lot about Scotland and what some of its people have been through in the past, and doing that justice and giving it respect also.
Yeah the first half of the first episode was kind of dull. But after that you get hooked really quick haha.
Jodi's Expat Life yeah - doesn't take long haha
First episode nearly made me click off haha.
I love Outlander. I read the books before watching the show. Usually when I do that I love the books and have lot of criticism about the show, but Outlander is the best adaptation for tv I’ve ever seen. I didn’t dislike the show in any moment.
The books also made me interested in Scottish history and culture, which I knew little about. For some reason I identify a lot with Scotland, even though I’ve never been there.
That was a great review. I am so glad that you understand the need to show the gory reality of the times, of occupation, of war. So many people complain about that part. As a history buff, I want that reality. I am so glad that you like the show so much and understand how brilliant Diana is and the cast and crew of the show. The acting, sets, photography, and music are brilliant. I came to the books first and was worried that a show could not capture it but they have done a spectacular job. They have changed some things that I don't like but overall it is wonderful. I really do hope that now that Scotland gets to see it that it will spark interest in the Scottish people for your history.
I want Murtaugh on my team! It’s so important in life to have true and loyal friends.
Team Murtaugh.
You got sucked in like we all did! Outlander is a great great saga!
My Monroe ancestor was transported to America after the Battle of Worcester (1651). My Bole ancestor emigrated in the later half of the 1700's. I had my DNA done and was shocked to see that I am twenty-six percent Scandinavian. I visited Scotland a few years ago and our tour guide explained the link between the Nordic countries and many of the Scottish people. Diana Gabaldon, in her books, even makes reference to Jaimie's Viking features. Mrs. Fitz is a great character from the show.
Yay, I'm glad you loved it :)
The scenes with Black Jack were certainly hard to watch, but written so well and acted brilliantly. I think many of us fans don't pay enough dues to Tobias Menzies. What it must take him to get into such a character. And to play two characters in the one show. But I am totally team Jamie! 😂 Whether that is because I can't look at Frank now and not see Jack, which I'm sure must have been in Claire's mind too, or because Jamie is just so much more. I personally really love the Scottish accent and atire (and you would do us all a great honour if you would wear a kilt for your Outlander location tours!!!), I think his devotion to Claire is on another level to Frank's. You feel it in every scene. The way he looks at her. The way he defends her. And especially because of the times, the way he celebrates her own achievements and doesn't hide her in the kitchen, so to speak. The scene at Leoch, when he pledges to her that their marriage must be different to those before their's and that he will never punish her like that again, that is really powerful. Frank is a man of his time completely, but Jamie seems like he is beyond his time, wanting equality in their relationship is beyond even Frank's time.
Have you seen any behind the scenes film on how the do Collum's legs and Ian's leg? It's interesting.
Love from Australia 😄
Hello, I guess you like the movie outlander
I have read most of the books. I stopped because I wanted to be enthralled in the Series, WHICH I LOVE. I would highly recommend reading the books.
To answer your questions. My Mother's side of the Family where ALL Scottish. Her maiden name is Wood. My Daughter and I are researching the Wood and Prine side of our Family. I have loved and been drawn to Scotland for as far back as I can remember. I was the only 5 year old in Maryland that owned a complete album of Bagpipes playing Celtic music. I was the only child in public school who loved wearing Tartan skirts, pants, etc....Luckily it was the '70's. My Favorite Book from age six is "Wuthering Heights".
As for Sam/Jamie, personally, I love Gingers. Scottish men have that rugged jawline and look Sexy in Kilts. Seriously, nothing is more Sexy than a Ginger Scotsman wearing a Kilt made from his Clan's Tartan.
BTW, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE YOUR VLOGS! Bless you and keep on doing a TERRIFIC job. Hugs!
✨*Sharon*: Funny ... I can't imagine a woman being attracted to a 6'4" ginger Scotsman with a rugged jawline, the body of a Greek god, wearing a full kilt made from his clan's tartan, wielding a sword like Thor and making love like Casanova.😉 Then, again, as my wife often occasionally (albeit sweetly) reminds me, her future husband is Jamie Fraser.🤗 I can't say I blame her. Diana Gabaldon created a love story for the ages with Jamie and Claire; and they could not have been cast better. Outlander is a stunning body of work.
*Shaun*: As you already know, TwinkleMom and I second Sharon's thoughts about your vlogs - they're outstanding!🙌✨
Love this review! My Dad was born in Edinburgh and have visited back and forth every few years. This series, in a way makes you even prouder to be Scottish. And makes me even more excited to come back to Edinburgh for 3 mths over Christmas
Jamie is such a heart throb because he isn't hyper masculine like the men on cheesy romamce novel book covers. He is sweet, he's imperfect, he's vulnerable and therefore compelling!
Thank you Shaun, I absolutely love your vlogs! I too am captivated by the series and love the informative insight into the History of Scotland and The Clans! So strange that is not taught in schools! I love, love, love my Scottish heritage and wear it as a badge of honor. Looking forward to all of your future vlogs:) Greetings from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA!
Ps...Yes, you do share the handsome ginger ruggedness that Jaime possesses:) Now you just need to do a future vlogs in a kilt😃🔥
My wife started me on this show and surprised me on how interesting this drama was made. She was mainly drawn into the show because of her fascination for her Scottish roots. Even though I thought this was going to be a sappy romantic soap it turned out to be a brilliant exposure to historical events.
I truly enjoy the characters and their nuances. I definitely agree with you on your reaction to it. I bet Scotland has benefited greatly from the spike in tourism due to the show. Scotland is definitely one of my future travel destinations.
Thanks Shaun 🙏🏾
I'm enjoying your Outlander videos! I ❤️ Outlander
Am I the only one who liked Dougal MacKenzie ? Lol
Kendra O no! I really loved Dougal despite him not being a squeaky clean character. Rough Scottish diamond.
Kendra O : not so
Season 1 was wonderful. Season 2 was even more gripping. It leaves a cliff hanger at the end, which is why we are patiently (impatiently?) waiting for Season 3. Of course, if I had read the books I would know what would be happening next. But, alas, I haven't. lol
One thing that Outlander made me wonder was what side of the Jacobite Rebellion might my family have been on? I could make a snap judgement due to the location I know that some of my family came from, but that might not be accurate.
silverbluegoddess oooooh I cannot wait
Oh, you've got to do your ancestry. It makes the show even more exciting. I know some of my family was in it and some weren't. It was split.
Yes, it's nearly time for the droughtlander to end!!
The Jacobites were trying to instate King James as King . He and the Jacobites were Catholic. They were trying to over throw King William of Orange who was Protestant. Thats the short easy way to describe that period in our history. In theory if you are Catholic then your ancestors were probably Jacobite and loyal to King James and if protestant then probably they were loyal to King William. I say probably because in these times these rules were not hard and fast as some families were forced into one side or the other by the laird of the land they lived on based on his own beliefs. Thats getting into the more complicated side of it now. :)
silverbluegoddess depends whether they were highlanders or lowlanders as not all highlanders got involved and the lowlanders tended to be more in favour of king George and fought on the government side if they were in the risings at all I only know this as I was researching it from the viewpoint of my second cousins as they have Scottish ancestry through their dad whose the cousin of my dad they are Macleods so I researched it for them !
Hey Shaun, I just watched your vlogs about your tour of (a wee part of) the U.S. In much the same way that Outlander has you looking at your Scottish heritage in a new way, your take on American culture took me down an interesting new line of thought about America. I love all this cross-cultural exploration! Since you love the U.S. so much I can't wait for you to read the Outlander books (book 4 and on) about them building a life in North Carolina! The Scottish immigrants had such a profound influence on the making of this country. Could the defeat at Culloden and the subsequent decimation of Scottish culture at home have been the key factor for victory over the English here? Keep up the thought provoking commentary.
I'm enjoying your blog and comments, Shaun.
If I was already missing the books, and the series, you made me want to pick them even more! What I love about Jamie, especially from the books, is his sense of humor, along side with is family values, and Sam Heughan was just such a great cast as Jamie! You'll see when you get to the books ;) The thing about Diana is...whenever you think she can't do worst to the characters? Well...she does. Really loved you review of the 1st season.
Amazing series and brutal final couple of episodes, not many series can get you to feel what the characters are going through as if it's happening to you! Gonna be having nightmares for a while, cheers Randall!
Tobias Menzies is hands down the best actor! He flawlessly portrays Frank and Black Jack as two totally different people.
Ann B and, yet, he's still the stoic guy from Game of Thrones in both characters lol
He is a great actor, no doubt
Shoutout to Argentina! YAY! I wish I had scotish blood in me, but I don't *sad face*
Really? WOW thanks!
Marianita Bustos aaaaah! I love Argentina. I was in BA a few years ago on honeymoon 😊
Awwww I'm so glad you feel that way! I hope you had an awesome time!!
Hey, Shaun! Love your videos! Don't forget to mention the soundtrack! OMG! The Skye Boat Song is so... I can't find a word... More than beautiful! I keep listening to it. And the rest of the soundtrack as well is wonderful. I love Bear McCreary's work in Outlander and The Walking Dead. He's a genius!!
Enjoyed your recap of Season 1 of Outlander from your Scottish perspective. This show was the catalyst for me visiting Scotland 2 years ago. I loved it and want to go back!
I listened to the books on audible. The narrator did an amazing job and I was able to "read" the nine books in the series while driving, cleaning, etc. Highly recommend listening to them.
Recently travelled to Scotland, loved it immensely. It's really nice to see that Scotland loves the show too (instead of being upset and thinking that Scotland is now just a tourist destination, like Twilight did for Washington). Love your review, keep on vlogging because I will be watching. By the way love the flannel!
I was fascinated by Scottish history after seeing Braveheart. I know it was fiction but it had a lot about clans. My family is from the O'Carroll clan in Ireland, so that movie and Outlander have sparked my interest in that as well. I am loving Outlander... so obsessed that I'm paying extra every month for the premium TV channel that carries it. It's the only reason I have that channel. lol What we love about Jamie? He's strong, he's honorable, his love is all-encompassing, and he's loyal to Scotland, his wife, his family and those he cares about. He seems the perfect man. I love anything medieval and this show thrusts you back in time... you feel as if you're there. You feel the angst, the unrest, how vulnerable people are. As far as the novels... when you read them you'll see they pull you even further in.
Love your take on the whole OUTLANDER phenom. Can't wait to hear your ideas about Season 2..(they are in Scotland as well as Paris)
I love these videos! Thank you for making them!! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
Jamie, physically, *is* an extremely attractive man, but what I find most attractive about him is actually just the way he loves. How attentive, admiring, and loyal he is. How many people get to be loved like that - not just in the beginning, but always?
Hi Shaun! I absolutely love your videos because 1) I'm from Brazil (and you have such a special bond with my country) 2) I have Scottish ancestry 3) I LOVE Outlander. I can't wait for your new videos in Scotland :)
You'll like Colum even better in the books. DG does a great job at reminding the reader that Colum commands the room when he speaks. At some point she says that although his body is wasting, he can look you in the eye and the strength of his spirit is all you see.
Reading through the comments today I see a lot of historical facts being brought forth. Well done, all.
Beautiful Scottish accent You have Pal. I am not even from England. But I am fascinated of any culture that came from this beautiful Island:)A 5y visit and live in Yorkshire changed my mind totally about people from there, I met many scotish folks there:)
I love Outlander! I went to Scotland in January, and never wanted to leave! I nearly cried when we flew to our next destination because I never wanted to leave! I didn't get to visit many place they filmed at (thanks to my aunt's "spectacular" navigating of British roads), but my highlights were definitely seeing Culloden and Edinburgh. Edinburgh is by far my favorite city in the world. I was so mad the day after we visited Edinburgh because I found out they were filming there that Tuesday and Thursday, but not the Wednesday we were in town. They were filming on the Royal Mile, where I was, and I missed it! Perfect timing self!
I love your videos! I just binged a bunch of them, and you've earned yourself a new subscriber! Can't wait to see more! I love your passion for you home country, it's really refreshing to see!
I read the books when they first came out years ago. I was glued to each page. The story took me to another place, far from my bedroom where I was reading. It was truly an escape to a different time and place. I can't tell you how much I cried, laughed and felt compelled to pick up a standard to fight for the clan. Lol! I'm happy to find others enjoy the books and now the series as much as I have. I must admit that it has made my Scottish blood rise to the top!
After reading the first book, I started researching Scottish history and was amazed at how much there was! "Leaving troubles behind!" Hahaha!!! There is so much more in the books! Prepare yourself for many more surprises! Then there's Season 2 ->!! LOVE your vlog, Shaun!
Angus is the best. :)
Kheasl ayyyyye too funny
Shaun someone likened he and Rupert to laurel and hardy of the show !
What a great series, stunning and captivating
I just finished the novels and all I can say is I feel a sense of loss. Like a part of my life is missing. How could a series do this to me?! I'm gutted it's over until I remembered that the next season starts in September!!! I'm totally enjoying your blogs! I can't believe you weren't taught about your history Shaun. Thanks and keep up the great work!!
There will be another book in the series coming out either next year or the year after I believe (tell the bees I am gone) :)
It's kind of surreal that a word (sassenach) that can be used as an almost slur in some archaic contexts now becomes a sexy pet name a Scottish person might call their non-Scottish other half because of this TV show? Yeh I call my Italian American Wife a Sassenach. She is into it.
:D . I can wait till season three.
My school had us do a clan project where we not only learned about each others clans, but about the entire feudal clan system.
It's a shame you didn't.
OH man! I can NOT WAIT for you to read the books!!!!!!!!
Hi Shaun, it has been a great job what you have decided to make. Talk about of this wonderful TV serie. As you are a Scottish, your opinion does a very interesting at the same time arouse our curiosity. Congratulations!! And please go on!!
Camille MNC thank you so much Camille, much more to come 😊
I'm so glad I've discovered your channel. I'm a huge fan of Outlander, which made me discover this beautiful country you call Scotland. I'm even planning to move in Edinburgh before the next summer, if my finances allow me to lol.
Outlander immediatly spoke to me since I'm Bretonne (Brittany, west of France, which is a celtic nation). The show perfectly depicts what is written in the books (currently reading the third one). Can't wait for the next season !
Thank you for your reaction videos. I really wanted to know what Scottish people thought of the series. I am shocked and not shocked that you were not taught much about your history. Pretty much the same thing happens here in the US. My parents were in the Japanese internment camps during the war, and they never mentioned it at all in history class.
I grew up in Scotland, and a history teacher was telling us about the '45' in 1965 at Grove Academy in Broughty Ferry before the family moved back to Glasgow. The main thing this history teacher ( A Scotsman)said we Must remember.-' It was NOT a war between the English and the Scots and that many of the Government Troops (Redcoats) were Scottish from Scottish Regiments'. It is a historical fact I have found since to be true and one which even highlanders I have met over many years testify to,in fact there were Englishmen in the Princes ranks.
I love Angus too! All of the characters in the show are great, even the ones that are horrible, they are played so well.
I love how open you are to this and how full your review is. It is so oooo oooo good. And I started the books after the show also. It did not disappoint.
Outlander would not be the amazing show it is today, without the beautiful Scottish landscape. Scotland is a must for me. Lots of love from L.A.
Julie Medina ohhh yeah Julie, glad you picked up on that. The landscape helps a lot 😊
The best thing is Dianna wrote Outlander just to write it. She never entened to show it to anyone. Now we're waiting for Season 3 and a 9th novel. I was given Outlander (the book) in 1993, I read it for a book report in 12th grade. I flew through it so fast I also I read Dragonfly In Amber. I got an unusual A+ on that report (that incidentally made me pass English). And now here we are today. When you do read the series, do a review on them as well. I'd like to hear what you have to say on those.
I was amazed when I found that out. She did it as a personal exercise to see if she could write it. Previously, Diana mostly did technical writing for software reviews.
I read the first book and The show is really a fleshed out version of the book. It's faithful on the books. One of my favorite quote/scene is when Claire asked Jamie if he bothers that she's not virgin anymore. Then Jamie replied "Well no..... so lo as it doesnae bother you that I am." It's just so innocent and romantic that it makes me blush.
Jamie Fraser is the King of Men! 😍
I’ve read the entire Outlander series and I’m impressed with how closely the TV series follows that books
As I told you, Shaun, a horrible ride through all the feels. Wife & I recently watched a brief interview with Ms. Gabaldon where she said that she wrote the first book to learn how to write a novel. She done good.
I quite admire the character Murtagh for his loyalty to Jamie as well as Claire.
Enjoy the series and as you Scots say "Haste ye pudding",,,,,,,,,, or something like that.
Love hearing thoughts on Outlander coming from an actual Scottish person! Great video and thanks for sharing
Go visit Preston Mill, it's just a 40 minute drive from Edinburgh! Super cute place!
My husband and I are truly enjoying your vlogs! Really liking the plaid shirt, too. As far as Outlander, I read the novels and was thrilled to find that Starz was filming the series. When I was reading the novels, my honey was relentless in teasing me about my crush on a fictional character. You know often when you read books, you have a pretty solid idea as to how the characters look. When I saw the first episode, it was as if Jamie Fraser stepped out of the books and onto the screen. My husband began watching and now I can tease him as to his crush on the character Claire. Our favourite other character is, hands down, Murtagh. Great writing. Amazing casting. And the costumes are brilliant. Glad you are enjoying it thus far. Safe travels on your way home. The Smiths
Gayla Smith Gayla, thank you so much for watching and your comments. Means a lot to me 😊 and I agree - the realness of these characters is what makes it special
I've just finished season 1. Love it. Holidays planned :) Greetings from Poland.
I read half of the first book years ago never continuing it again and just now ive binged a lot of episodes from s1 😅
Oh yeah - Murtagh for sure! and also Dougal
Erin Middleton Dougal is the bad boy we're afraid to admit we love lol
Dougal is the guy that I loved at first, then hated him, then loved him again, then....you get it. He did so many things to "redeem" himself, but ultimately he was an arse overall.
Being of Scottish descent, I was excited when I saw this coming to TV. I don't really see many Scottish shows to see my ancestry represented. I see plenty of English and Canadian shows or characters, but hardly Scottish. I'm really glad Outlander has made it to TV. I've tried reading the first book.... We'll leave it there.
This was wonderful, good job! It may interest you to know that Scottish Festivals happen all over the US. My Mother, who was a Presbyterian Woman for Life, a huge honor in the US Presbyterian Church, was always involved in organizing the Scottish festival in my old hometown. She was so proud of her own ancestry, and so am I. The books are very good, and you should at least read the first three. Things take a turn after that, but the characters remain.
It's hard for me to watch letting Black Jack go when they have chance after chance to end his evil. One of the greatest lines of the Good, Bad, and Ugly was Tuco saying after he shoots the man lecturing him. He says "if you're going to shoot don't talk. If your going to shoot, shoot don't talk." Jack Randall kicks Claire, off with his head, don't talk or run away. Jamie is so frustrating.
I am proud to call myself a Scottish Canadian. I own two kilts and wear them at important occasions. The first person of my family who came to Canada came here because he was run out of of Scotland after the final. We originally came from just northwest of Aberdeen.
I'm watching you since few videos now, and watched some of your past ones. Not that relatable to this topic, but must say, I really enjoy your dialect. I'm not a native speaker, but Scottish dialects are the best regarding the ability of understanding for me. You guys speak very openly, articulate beautifully, I mean so much i and e sounds, just like my native language. It is also nice to hear and learn new area specific words! Thank you for your work! :)
Cool video. It's nice to hear from a Scottish person about outlander. Outlander and game of thrones r really the only shows I watch on tv. Probably cause there based off really good books, but it's also nice to see a video with a guy talking about outlander. All I can find r women which isn't bad but it's cool to know I'm not the only guy that likes the show. U should do more outlander videos
Why I love Jamie? He is a MAN. He is what I consider the perfect man. His growth and character is one part of why I read and re-read, listen to audio...over and over again..all eight books so far. I honestly can not stress enough, that if you love the show, you will be sucked in and become an addict once you read the books because there is SO much more detail that is lacking in the show. There's a ton more of Jamie, more humor, more tears, more nail biting tension in the books than in the show, too.
Holy smokes I just got hooked on this show and loved your thoughts on it. I want to visit Scotland one day
Hey Shaun, thanks for your insider's perspective on Outlander, I was, like many others, very curious to hear a Scottish reaction about the series.
To answer your question, what I find appealing about Jamie is his accent of course, and well, we can't argue he is a handsome ginger man. As you do, I really like Angus too, as he enlightens the heavy feelings of the series sometimes.
Oh and by the way you might change your mind in season 2 about Colum, then change it again (that's what it did for me at least!)
As you said, season 1 finale is quite something indeed, but wait for season 2 last episode, you'll be on ye arse! ;)
Thanks for your post. Hooked clan and sinker
Great video! Really enjoyed your reaction and perspective.
Loved Season 1 (and Season 2). I started watching it when More4 started airing it in July and then went out and bought the bluray boxset of Seasons 1 and 2 as I needed to watch it and not have to wait, plus not having bloody adds was a bonus
Hurry up you've only got another month to power through season 2 before season 3 drops! Bizarrely my Scottish husband finished season 1 today, too. He's fully locked in. Told y'all it was a good show!
Season 3 in less than a month. Debuts 9/10. I just rewatched both seasons and listened to the first 3 book in prep!
Good review! If you haven't read Outlander, do so. The escapes you speak of are so much better in the book, IMHO.
Seeing Outlander made me curious about the John Prebble histories (Glencoe, Culloden, The Highland Clearances, Mutiny) I purchased when I traveled through Scotland in 1978 as a 22 year old travelling by bicycle and train. So I have just finished reading them. Wow, so interesting. The clans had much in common with our North American Indians: the warrior culture and values. I know that one of my great-grandfathers was a Murray, and that his grandfather came to Canada in the late 1700's. I think it might be impossible to trace him to his exact Scottish origins. He named his first daughter Alta (Gaelic for Scotland, I believe). So I find I am suddenly having a great surge of Scottish pride..... even though it is only a pinch of salt's worth.
Haha I'm pretty sure Outlander filtered into my search because I'm doing research on my own Scottish heritage. I'm from America but have recently traced my maiden name to the Glasgow area in the 1700's. Not sure about clans or anything yet, but I've loved learning about Scottish history 😊
I'm from Dunfermline (Scotland) and I'm really interested in the clans and I'm also new to watching outlander
Glad you're enjoying it! Keep it up!
have you noticed one thing about scots that they will talk shyte about scotland and we laugh but as soon as some else says shyte about scotland and we say here it my be shyte but its my shyte. like i will say shit about Elgin cause iv lived here for so long but anyone else says its shyte i start to defend elgin lol
Glad you seemed to enjoy the series so far. LOOOOOVED the books. The series is very good, but the books are better. ;) I like that antlered deer decal (?) behind you on the wall, where did you get that from?
Hi Shaun! I'm an American of Scottish descent (My mother's maiden name is McKay), so I've always been interested in all things Scottish. Im very much enjoying this series of vlogs. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. I find them fascinating. By the way, I'm a gay msn, and I also found the rape scene with Jamie and Jack very disturbing. I have a question. Do you speak any Gaelic? I've been trying to learn for several years and find it to be very difficult. Anyway, thanks again for sharing your thoughts with us! I look forward to more!
Hi Shaun
I am also loving the Television programme Outlander, but always remember that this is a fantasy story told against the background of historical facts.
As the old saying goes, ‘History is written by the victors’
Well not always!
As you have said, you were not taught about the history of Scotland at school, but interesting as this TV fantasy is, it is not the history of the Scotland.
A little about my interest. My name is Tony, my family, on my mothers side is Clan Home, although through a quirk of mature I was born in Yorkshire England, my parents are both economic migrants from Scotland and I am proud of my Scottish heritage.
My Clan are lowland Scots from the boarders and fought for the English at the battle of Prestonpans, just outside of Edinburgh.
What the Outlander Series is not explaining very well, is that the conflict was a religious as well as political one. The Hanoverian Royal family were Protestants who had been invited into England by wealthy aristocrats to save them from a Catholic Monarchy. Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) had a more legitimate claim to the thrown of Britain through bloodlines, being the Grandson of the Roman Catholic James II of England and VII of Scotland who had fled into exile in France. The Highland Clans were also Roman Catholics and so were many people in England who supported King James II (The Jacobites).
King George and his family were still very nervous about keeping their hands on the British thrown and so he sent is soldier brother Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland (Butcher Cumberland) up to Scotland to keep the Catholic King and his supporters from knocking him off the royal seat.
My family were protestants, so were swept up in the support of the German claim to the thrown. Many members of my family were killed in this war. Interestingly there were more Scotsmen killed by fellow Scots than by the English, as Cumberland conscripted a lot of his army from the lowland Scots.
This was the same Royal Family who fought the Jacobite army in Ireland and started the whole conflict over there too.
You are from Edinburgh, I wonder which side you would have fought for at the time if any?
Many residents of Edinburgh would have witnessed armies of both sides coming and going as they tried to keep their heads down and make a day to day living.
This conflict can still be witnessed every Saturday when Celtic play Rangers at Soccer!
Outlander is a cracking good production though and well worth the watch.
✨Very interesting and insightful historical background, Tony.🤔 Thank you!✨
I thought that on the contrary, Outlander did explain very well that the conflict had a religious nature and many Scotts (including Jamie himself, even though he is Catholic Highlander) weren't eager to join the Jacobite cause. He and Claire actually spent half of season 2 trying to prevent the rebellion from happening altogether. It was also political because many clan chiefs hoped to gain more power and privelege if Stuarts returned to power, and also closer relations with predominantly Catholic countries like Italy and France. This, again, is very well shown in Season 2. It was never mentioned in the show that the conflict was about independence from England, lots of talk about "returning the rightful ruler to the throne" though. If you actually watched the show, you couldn't have missed that.
Im chuckling at the point where you talk about Frank and BJR, and if BJRs darkness reaches Frank. It's so great to hear a none book reader talk and to be still unaware of what's to come.
Chantal Bakker haha! Chantal, from this, Im sensing there's a surprise in store for me 😮