Adapting the chapter for the Outlander TV series
Finally, we look at how this chapter was adapted for the show. There were certainly elements of this chapter completely missed out. Horrocks’s mention was brief and just to tell Claire who killed the sergeant major. There wasn’t the time in the show to add more. Plus, this section was held for later in the show to allow the series to focus on Claire and Jamie’s return to Castle Leoch.
We got to see what Jamie was doing, building more of his character and allowing the series to show and not tell. However, he didn’t get a ring for Claire. Remember that this was done for the wedding. He used the key to Lallybroch to get the ring made.
The silver ring comes much later. It’s adapted in Outlander Season 4, linking the stolen ring with Bonnet and bringing Murtagh back into the story. I do feel like from a show point of view, this adaptation meant far more to Claire and Jamie. It fits so beautifully.
Moving back to this chapter being adapted, we see Jamie meeting with Laoghaire. She strips off, wanting him to take her. This is a chance for us to see that Jamie turns her down. He’s not interested in her and he definitely isn’t going to break his marriage vows.
Like his oath, his marriage vows are important to him. He doesn’t do either lightly, and we get to see that play out in the show by including Jamie’s scenes.
What did you notice in Outlander Book 1, Chapter 23? Share in the comments below.
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