On this day in Outlander history: The Gathering

Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room
Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room

Outlander Season 1, Episode 4 aired for the first time on this day in Outlander history. With a renewed sense of hope, Claire plots her escape from Castle Leoch while at the Gathering.

In Outlander history today, Season 1, Episode 4 aired for the first time. Titled “The Gathering,” it was an episode we were hinted to get in the previous one. Mrs. Fitz had told Claire all about the upcoming Gathering and Colum was getting a coat fitted.

Now it was time for the MacKenzies around to say their oath to their laird, starting with Dougal MacKenzie. It was also the perfect chance for Claire to escape without being seen. With a renewed sense of hope from the folktale, Claire was ready to get back to Craig na Dun and Frank.

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We all knew it was never going to work out. After all, Claire and Jamie are soul mates (if you believe in that sort of thing). They’re destined to be together and you knew somehow Claire would find herself still in the past by the end of the episode.

The big question was how it would happen. And would anyone find out that she was trying to escape?

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And as all that goes on, Claire has to continue being a healer to the people of Clan MacKenzie. Sometimes it’s not to heal the physical body but to offer calm and ease when someone passes on.

There’s one moment that always stands out for me, as Claire helps one of the clan members die without fear, bringing back the reminder that she was a nurse in World War II. She also gains Dougal’s respect, even if it’s just for a minute.

Oh, and we can’t forget about the game of “shinty” in the episode. If you need reminding of this, STARZ shared a clip on their YouTube channel when this episode first aired in Outlander history.

What is it about “The Gathering” that you love? Which moments of Outlander Season 1, Episode 4 stand out for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Like Claire and Jamie on Facebook for a look back at Outlander Season 1, Episode 4 over the next few days.