The “Roanoke” season of American Horror Story masterfully blends historical elements with fictional horror, prompting the recurring question: Is any of it true? While the core narrative is a work of fiction, it draws heavily upon real-world events and legends, particularly the infamous Lost Colony of Roanoke.
The Roanoke Legend: A Foundation of Fear
What Actually Happened at Roanoke?
The historical Roanoke Colony was an English settlement established in 1585 on Roanoke Island, now part of present-day North Carolina. Founded by Sir Walter Raleigh, it aimed to be the first permanent English settlement in North America. The initial settlers faced hardships and returned to England. A second group, led by Governor John White, arrived in 1587. White sailed back to England for supplies, but his return was delayed by the Anglo-Spanish War. When he finally arrived back in 1590, the entire colony had vanished. The only clue was the word “CROATOAN” carved into a post and the word “CRO” carved into a nearby tree.
Theories Surrounding the Lost Colony
The fate of the Roanoke colonists remains one of history’s great mysteries. Several theories exist, including:
- Assimilation into Native American tribes: The most widely accepted theory suggests the colonists integrated with local Native American tribes, such as the Croatoan (now known as Hatteras).
- Conflict with Native Americans: Hostilities could have erupted between the colonists and local tribes, leading to their demise.
- Disease and starvation: Harsh conditions and lack of supplies could have weakened the colonists, making them vulnerable to disease and starvation.
- Spanish attack: While less likely, a Spanish attack on the colony has also been considered a possibility.
- Natural disaster: A hurricane or other natural disaster could have wiped out the colony.
“Roanoke” AHS: Fiction Inspired by Reality
How “Roanoke” AHS Uses the Legend
“Roanoke” AHS incorporates the Roanoke legend as a central element of its plot. The show presents a fictionalized account of the colony’s disappearance, attributing it to a vengeful spirit known as “The Butcher,” a leader of the Roanoke colonists who practiced human sacrifice to appease ancient woodland gods. This is where the show diverges dramatically from historical accounts.
Key Fictional Elements
- The Butcher and Blood Sacrifice: No historical evidence supports the existence of “The Butcher” or the practice of human sacrifice within the actual Roanoke Colony.
- Supernatural Entities: The season heavily features ghosts, spirits, and ancient pagan rituals, elements that are purely fictional.
- The Polk Family: The cannibalistic Polk family and their connection to the Roanoke legend are entirely creations of the show.
Historical Parallels and Inspirations
Despite the fictional elements, “Roanoke” AHS draws inspiration from real events and folklore:
- The Lost Colony: The central mystery of the vanished colonists serves as the foundation for the season’s plot.
- “Croatoan” Mystery: The carved word “Croatoan” is a crucial clue in both the historical mystery and the AHS narrative.
- Appalachian Folklore: The show incorporates elements of Appalachian folklore, particularly stories of wilderness survival and isolated communities.
- Colonial Hardships: The season depicts the harsh living conditions faced by early colonists, reflecting the real-world struggles experienced by the Roanoke settlers.
FAQs: Demystifying “Roanoke”
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about the historical accuracy of “Roanoke” AHS:
FAQ 1: Is “The Butcher” from AHS Roanoke based on a real person?
No. “The Butcher,” portrayed in American Horror Story: Roanoke, is a fictional character created for the show’s narrative. There is no historical evidence of a leader named “The Butcher” who practiced human sacrifice within the Roanoke Colony.
FAQ 2: Did the Roanoke colonists really disappear due to supernatural forces?
While the American Horror Story season suggests supernatural causes, the disappearance of the Roanoke colonists in real life remains a mystery. The leading theories focus on more mundane explanations, like assimilation, conflict, disease, or natural disaster. Supernatural explanations are purely fictional.
FAQ 3: What is the meaning of the word “CROATOAN” in relation to the Roanoke Colony?
The word “CROATOAN” was found carved into a post at the abandoned Roanoke settlement. It is believed to refer to the Croatoan tribe (now Hatteras), a Native American group who lived on nearby Croatoan Island. The colonists might have joined the tribe, but the exact circumstances are unknown.
FAQ 4: Are the Polk family in “Roanoke” AHS based on a real cannibal family?
The Polk family, depicted as cannibalistic in “Roanoke” AHS, is a fictional creation. While there have been documented cases of cannibalism throughout history, the Polk family is not based on any specific historical individuals or events connected to the Roanoke Colony.
FAQ 5: Did the Roanoke colonists practice human sacrifice in real life?
There is no historical evidence to suggest that the Roanoke colonists practiced human sacrifice. This is a key element of the fictional narrative created for “Roanoke” AHS.
FAQ 6: Is the house featured in “Roanoke” AHS a real haunted house?
The house featured in “Roanoke” AHS is a set created for the show. While the story draws inspiration from the Roanoke legend, the specific house and its purported hauntings are fictional.
FAQ 7: What are some of the most credible theories about the Lost Colony of Roanoke?
The most credible theories include:
- Assimilation into Native American tribes (particularly the Croatoan).
- Conflict with Native Americans.
- Disease and starvation due to harsh conditions.
FAQ 8: How accurate is the depiction of colonial life in “Roanoke” AHS?
While “Roanoke” AHS depicts the hardships of colonial life, it takes significant creative liberties. The show exaggerates certain aspects for dramatic effect, focusing more on supernatural horror than historical accuracy. The show does capture some general aspects of colonial life: lack of hygiene, constant threat of disease, and danger of attacks.
FAQ 9: What year did the Roanoke colonists disappear?
The Roanoke colonists disappeared sometime between 1587, when Governor John White left for England, and 1590, when he returned to find the colony abandoned.
FAQ 10: Is it possible the colonists tried to return to England on their own?
It’s possible that the colonists attempted to return to England on their own, but there’s no definitive evidence to support this theory. The lack of ship remains or other evidence suggests this may not be the correct answer.
FAQ 11: Does “Roanoke” AHS accurately portray the relationship between the colonists and Native American tribes?
The show does depict a conflict between the colonists and Native Americans, although it greatly sensationalizes this aspect with the portrayal of evil entities and blood sacrifices. The relationship between the real Roanoke colonists and local tribes was likely more complex than portrayed in the show, involving elements of cooperation, trade, and occasional conflict.
FAQ 12: Where can I learn more about the real history of the Roanoke Colony?
Excellent sources for learning about the Roanoke Colony include:
- The National Park Service website (Cape Hatteras National Seashore).
- The Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
- Academic journals and books focusing on colonial American history.
Conclusion
“Roanoke” AHS leverages the intrigue and mystery surrounding the Lost Colony of Roanoke to create a compelling horror narrative. While the show incorporates some historical elements, it primarily serves as a fictionalized account enhanced by supernatural themes and invented characters. Separating fact from fiction is key to appreciating the season as entertainment while acknowledging the enduring historical enigma that is the Roanoke Colony.