Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser learns the truth about Claire’s time-traveling origins in Season 2, Episode 7, “Faith.” This emotionally charged revelation occurs after Claire’s traumatic experience at the French court and while she recovers from losing her child.
The Weight of Truth: Murtagh’s Discovery
The revelation of Claire’s true nature to Murtagh isn’t a simple, straightforward confession. It’s born from desperation, grief, and a desperate need for someone Jamie trusts implicitly to understand the circumstances surrounding Claire’s pregnancy and the dangers they face in altering history.
After Claire suffers a stillbirth and is imprisoned for allegedly poisoning Comte St. Germain, Jamie resorts to desperate measures to save her. He makes a deal with King Louis XV involving sexual favors in exchange for Claire’s freedom and the dismissal of all charges. Murtagh, witnessing Jamie’s profound despair and suspecting the true nature of the king’s intervention, grows increasingly concerned.
It’s not until after Claire is released and struggling with her grief that Jamie confides in Murtagh. He recognizes Murtagh’s unwavering loyalty and understands that Claire needs someone besides him to bear the burden of her secret. He knows Murtagh will believe him, where others would dismiss it as madness. This moment is pivotal for their relationship, strengthening their bond and establishing Murtagh as a crucial confidant in their extraordinary journey. He becomes not just a protector, but a partner in safeguarding Claire and Jamie’s secret.
The Emotional Impact: Loyalty Tested and Forged
Murtagh’s reaction is complex. Initially, he struggles to comprehend the concept of time travel. He asks skeptical questions and requires Jamie to provide corroborating evidence – specifically, evidence of Claire’s knowledge of future events. However, witnessing Claire’s genuine pain and hearing Jamie’s unwavering belief in her, Murtagh ultimately accepts the unbelievable truth.
This acceptance is a testament to the depth of his loyalty to Jamie. He may not fully grasp the science behind Claire’s origins, but he trusts Jamie’s judgment implicitly. His pragmatic nature eventually overrides his skepticism, and he prioritizes protecting Claire and Jamie from the dangers their secret could bring.
The revelation dramatically changes Murtagh’s role. He becomes an integral part of their inner circle, providing practical support and unwavering loyalty. He offers a grounding presence amidst the extraordinary circumstances, proving his invaluable worth to both Claire and Jamie. This moment solidifies their bond as a family, bound not just by blood, but by shared secrets and unwavering devotion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Murtagh and Claire’s Secret
H3: What specific event prompts Jamie to finally tell Murtagh about Claire?
Jamie’s decision to confide in Murtagh stems directly from the devastating loss of their baby, Faith, and the subsequent deal he makes with King Louis XV. He sees Claire consumed by grief and knows she needs another loyal confidant to help her cope with the burden of her secret. The weight of keeping it all to himself becomes unbearable.
H3: How does Murtagh initially react to learning about Claire’s time travel?
Murtagh is, understandably, skeptical. He initially believes Jamie is suffering from grief and delusion. He questions the possibility of time travel and challenges Jamie to provide proof of Claire’s claims. He doesn’t dismiss it outright, however, choosing to observe Claire’s reactions and listen to Jamie’s fervent belief.
H3: What proof does Jamie offer Murtagh to convince him?
Jamie doesn’t offer tangible proof in the traditional sense. Instead, he relies on Claire’s knowledge of future events, things she couldn’t possibly know unless she came from the future. This includes her predictions about historical events that are yet to occur in the 18th century, as well as details about inventions and technologies that don’t yet exist. It’s the consistency and accuracy of these predictions that ultimately sway Murtagh.
H3: Does Murtagh ever fully understand the mechanics of time travel?
Not really. While he accepts that Claire is from the future, he never quite grasps the scientific complexities of time travel. He focuses instead on the practical implications and the dangers they face as a result of Claire’s knowledge. He sees it as a reality, regardless of how impossible it seems.
H3: How does Murtagh’s relationship with Claire change after he learns her secret?
Their relationship deepens considerably. Murtagh evolves from being solely Jamie’s loyal protector to becoming a guardian of Claire’s secret as well. He becomes more protective of her and more invested in her well-being. He begins to see her as more than just Jamie’s wife; she becomes a member of his extended family, deserving of his loyalty and protection.
H3: Does knowing Claire’s secret put Murtagh in danger?
Absolutely. Knowing about Claire’s time-traveling origins makes Murtagh a target. If their secret were to be exposed, it could lead to accusations of witchcraft, treason, or other serious charges. The knowledge puts a heavy burden on him and forces him to be even more cautious about his words and actions.
H3: Is Murtagh the only person Jamie tells about Claire’s secret in Season 2?
No, he also confides in Mother Hildegarde, a nun and apothecary at L’Hôpital des Anges in Paris. Mother Hildegarde possesses a unique understanding of the world and a certain open-mindedness that allows her to accept the impossible.
H3: How does Claire feel about Jamie telling Murtagh her secret?
Claire is initially hesitant and worried about the potential consequences. She fears putting Murtagh in danger. However, she also recognizes the necessity of having another trusted ally. Ultimately, she trusts Jamie’s judgment and appreciates Murtagh’s unwavering support.
H3: Does Murtagh ever use his knowledge of the future to his advantage?
Not directly. Murtagh’s primary concern is the safety and well-being of Jamie and Claire. He doesn’t exploit his knowledge for personal gain. He might occasionally offer subtle warnings or suggestions based on Claire’s information, but he generally prioritizes protecting the timeline and avoiding any significant alterations to history.
H3: How does Murtagh’s reaction compare to others who eventually learn about Claire’s time travel?
Murtagh’s reaction is unique because of his deep-seated loyalty to Jamie. While others, like Geillis Duncan, are fascinated by the possibilities of time travel, Murtagh focuses on the practical implications and the potential dangers. He is driven by his unwavering loyalty to Jamie and his desire to protect those he cares about, rather than a thirst for knowledge or power.
H3: What is the significance of this reveal to the overall storyline of Outlander?
The reveal to Murtagh is a crucial turning point in the series. It solidifies the bonds of loyalty and trust that are essential to the core relationships of the story. It also increases the stakes, as more people become aware of Claire’s secret and the potential consequences it carries. It sets the stage for future conflicts and challenges that require the combined strength and resourcefulness of Jamie, Claire, and Murtagh.
H3: Does Murtagh ever betray Claire’s trust after learning her secret?
Absolutely not. Murtagh remains steadfastly loyal to both Jamie and Claire throughout the series. He never reveals their secret to anyone who would use it against them, and he consistently puts their well-being above his own. His loyalty is one of the defining characteristics of his character, and it is never wavered, even in the face of extreme adversity. He becomes a pillar of support and unwavering devotion, demonstrating the true meaning of family forged in hardship. Murtagh’s unwavering loyalty solidifies his status as one of the most beloved characters in the Outlander series.