RTR3E5KV
IN PHOTO: Scottish actor Graham McTavish arrives at the Great British Film Reception to honor the British Oscar nominees at the residence of the British Consul General in Los Angeles February 22, 2013. Reuters/Fred Prouser

Cast member Graham McTavish helps fans understand some of the terms they hear in the “Outlander” TV series. The actor plays the role of a character called Dougal Mackenzie in the show, who has played a significant part in the storyline so far.

Many Scottish terms, like laird, maybe unfamiliar to the audience watching the show in U.S, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Graham McTavish explained some of the terms from the show in this video posted on YouTube. Fans of the franchise in the UK may, however, be familiar with some of these terms.

The first thing that the fans may have noticed, after Claire meets the Scotsmen in 1740s, is what they wear. A kilt, explains Graham, is “one of the most practical useful garments you will ever wear.” The actor has been seen wearing a kilt in the TV series. The dress will apparently keep a person warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

In the 1740s people were able to sleep in a kilt and it could even be used like a “raincoat” in Scotland. There are different ways of wearing a kilt and this video by TV Guide shows how the assistant costume designer of the “Outlander” TV series helps some of the cast members wear their kilt.

The other terms heard on the show are clan, laird, sassenach, jacobite, tulach ard and Craigh Na Dun. Clan is another name for tribe and laird is the chief of a tribe. Sassenach means any stranger who is not from the Highlands. Jacobite is anyone who wishes to restore the steward monarchy and intends to be a part of the rebellion. Tulach ard is the war cry of clan Mackenzie and the name comes from a mountain located in the Mackenzie lands.

Craigh Na Dun is a place where the magical stones transported Claire back in time in the “Outlander” TV series. The producers have shared this image of Claire and Jenny from episode 14 of the show. The behind-the-scenes photo shows how the scene of Claire and Jenny interrogating a British soldier was filmed. Commenting on the photo, some of the fans expressed their interest of visiting the set of the show.

For questions/comments regarding the article, you may email the writer at s.trivedi@ibtimes.com.au.

RELATED STORIES