Why does Joe call Claire ‘Lady Jane’ in Outlander?
During Outlander Season 3, Joe calls Claire “Lady Jane.” He also uses the name in the books. Why does he give her that nickname?
There are a lot of questions that come up when reading or watching Outlander. Yes, the answers are in the books, but not everyone has read them. And sometimes, it’s easy to overlook elements from the large books. So, questions are normal.
One of the questions is why Joe Abernathy calls Claire “Lady Jane.” That nickname is shortened to “LJ” at times.
The explanation is given in The Fiery Cross. It might be in earlier books, but I honestly can’t remember. See, it’s very easy to forget some details. It’s not been given in the show yet, but there is still time.
The meaning behind Joe’s nickname for Claire in Outlander
Claire states that her nickname is due to her accent. She sounds like she’s just had tea with the Queen and that when she says something, she expects to get what she wants. It’s not actually Joe that starts it, but another doctor in the hospital. The term isn’t supposed to be an endearing one (a bit like Sassenach) but it is when it’s from Joe. He points out that there could be worse nicknames so she should just accept that one.
Of course, those who would have had tea with the queen could be Ladies of the Court. The nickname “Lady Jane” was quickly given.
But why Jane? That’s never really explained. However, I will say as a child growing up in England, I was often called “Lady Jane” by my grandmothers when I did something naughty. I also use the name on my own children.
The name “Lady Jane” likely comes from the British Queen of Nine Days, Lady Jane Grey. I’ll leave you to look into her, but she came between King Edward VI and Queen Mary I.