While American Horror Story: Roanoke is rooted in some kernels of historical inspiration, it is ultimately a fictionalized and sensationalized horror narrative built upon the very real legend of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. The series blends documented historical events with supernatural elements and invented characters, creating a chilling tale far removed from verifiable historical accuracy.
The Real Roanoke: History’s Lost Colony
The story of the Roanoke Colony is one of the most enduring mysteries in American history. Founded in 1587 on Roanoke Island, off the coast of present-day North Carolina, the English settlement vanished mysteriously sometime before 1590.
The Initial Colony and Its Leadership
Sir Walter Raleigh, an English explorer and courtier, initiated the Roanoke voyages. John White, an artist and cartographer, led the second expedition, which included women and children. Upon arriving, the colonists faced hardship and dwindling supplies. White returned to England for supplies, but his return was delayed by the Anglo-Spanish War.
The Disappearance: “Croatoan”
When White finally returned to Roanoke in 1590, he found the colony deserted. All 117 settlers, including his daughter and granddaughter (Virginia Dare, the first English child born in America), were gone. The only clue was the word “CROATOAN” carved into a post and “CRO” carved into a tree. Croatoan was the name of a nearby island (modern-day Hatteras Island) and the Native American tribe inhabiting it.
Theories and Unanswered Questions
The fate of the Roanoke colonists remains a subject of intense speculation and debate. Possible scenarios include:
- Assimilation: The colonists integrated with local Native American tribes. Evidence of English artifacts found at Native American sites supports this theory.
- Conflict: Hostilities with Native American tribes resulted in the colonists’ demise.
- Disease: An outbreak of disease decimated the colony.
- Starvation: Lack of resources led to starvation and death.
- Environmental Factors: A severe drought or other environmental catastrophes contributed to the colony’s demise.
American Horror Story: Roanoke: Exploiting the Legend
American Horror Story: Roanoke takes the basic premise of the lost colony and layers on supernatural horror elements, creating a vastly different narrative. The series presents a “mockumentary” style format, followed by a reality TV show spin-off where the actors re-enact the events, leading to further mayhem.
Key Differences Between Fact and Fiction
- Supernatural Elements: The AHS version introduces a powerful ancient entity, the Butcher (Agnes Mary Winstead), who leads the Roanoke colonists in ritualistic sacrifices and murderous rampages. There is no historical basis for this character or the supernatural aspects of the series.
- Violent Conflict: AHS heavily emphasizes the violent conflict between the colonists and Native American tribes, depicting graphic scenes of torture and murder. While some conflict likely occurred, the AHS portrayal is significantly exaggerated for dramatic effect.
- Modern-Day Events: The AHS narrative extends into the present day, with new residents moving into the haunted house and experiencing the wrath of the ghosts. These events are entirely fictional.
- Character Depictions: The characters in AHS are fictional creations, inspired loosely by historical figures, but ultimately serving the needs of the horror narrative.
Sensationalism and Artistic License
The series takes significant artistic license, prioritizing scares and shocking visuals over historical accuracy. While the show acknowledges the mystery of the Roanoke colony, it ultimately offers a supernatural explanation that is purely fictional.
FAQs About American Horror Story: Roanoke and the Real Colony
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the distinction between fact and fiction:
FAQ 1: Is the Butcher a real person?
No, the Butcher, Agnes Mary Winstead, is a fictional character created for American Horror Story: Roanoke. While the series suggests she is based on a historical figure who led the Roanoke colonists, no such individual exists in documented history.
FAQ 2: Did the Roanoke colonists practice blood sacrifices?
There is no historical evidence to suggest that the Roanoke colonists practiced blood sacrifices. The series introduces this element as part of its supernatural horror narrative.
FAQ 3: Did Native American tribes participate in the Roanoke colonists’ disappearance?
The extent of Native American involvement in the colonists’ disappearance is debated. Some theories suggest conflict, while others propose assimilation. The AHS depiction of constant warfare is a dramatic exaggeration.
FAQ 4: Is the house in American Horror Story: Roanoke real?
The house used in the series is a fictional creation. While the series aims to create a sense of authenticity, the house and the events that occur within it are entirely fabricated for the purposes of the show.
FAQ 5: What does “Croatoan” actually mean?
“Croatoan” was the name of a Native American tribe and the island they inhabited (modern-day Hatteras Island). Its meaning beyond that is unclear, and its significance in the Roanoke mystery is subject to various interpretations.
FAQ 6: What is the most accepted theory about what happened to the Roanoke colonists?
The most widely accepted theory is that the Roanoke colonists assimilated into local Native American tribes. Evidence of English artifacts found at Native American sites supports this theory, although definitive proof remains elusive.
FAQ 7: Were there really two Roanoke colonies?
Yes, there were two separate attempts to establish a colony at Roanoke. The first was a military outpost in 1585, which failed. The second, in 1587, included families and aimed to be a permanent settlement, but it also ultimately failed.
FAQ 8: What is the significance of Virginia Dare?
Virginia Dare was the first English child born in America. Her disappearance with the rest of the Roanoke colonists made her a symbol of the mystery and the early struggle to establish English settlements in North America.
FAQ 9: Is Roanoke Island currently inhabited?
Yes, Roanoke Island is currently inhabited. It is part of the Outer Banks region of North Carolina and is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical sites and natural beauty.
FAQ 10: What evidence supports the theory of assimilation with Native Americans?
Archaeological evidence, such as English artifacts found at Native American sites, supports the assimilation theory. These artifacts suggest interaction and possible integration between the colonists and the indigenous population.
FAQ 11: Are there any ongoing investigations into the disappearance of the Roanoke colony?
Archaeological research and historical studies continue to shed light on the Roanoke mystery. While a definitive answer may never be found, researchers continue to explore potential clues and theories.
FAQ 12: Is it worth visiting Roanoke Island to learn more about the history?
Absolutely! Roanoke Island offers numerous historical sites and museums that provide valuable insights into the history of the lost colony. A visit allows for a deeper understanding of the real events and the enduring mystery.
Conclusion: Separating Fact from AHS Fiction
American Horror Story: Roanoke uses the real-life mystery of the lost colony as a springboard for its fictional horror narrative. While the series may pique viewers’ interest in the historical event, it is crucial to remember that the show’s depiction is heavily sensationalized and incorporates supernatural elements that have no basis in historical fact. Understanding the difference between the historical mystery of Roanoke and the fictionalized horror of American Horror Story allows viewers to appreciate both the enduring enigma of the lost colony and the creative liberties taken in the television series. The true fate of the Roanoke colonists remains one of history’s most compelling and unsolved mysteries.