Scots, Sassenachs, and Spankings: Feminism and Gender Roles in Outlander

Gushing fans of Outlander name it the feminist Game of Thrones. Is it? More action-packed than a romance, this historical time travel narrative soon transforms into a war saga.

Claire delights as the fierce, prickly World War II nurse who falls for Jamie, the sensitive Highlands outlaw. He offers more than a fling or even a timeless love, as he guides the heroine to a deeper level of spirituality. Of course, Diana Gabaldon explores much about modern gender construction. Her heroines shoot pirates, while the Highlanders blend courtly gallantry with bloodthirsty battles. How the books and show address nudity, violence, gender roles, and the elusive female gaze reveals much about the characters, as well as ourselves.