A mark on one arm like the one I bore. Here, in this time, the mark of sorcery, the mark of a magus. The small, homely scar of a smallpox vaccination.
In "Outlander," the protagonist reflects on a mark she bears on her arm, which she compares to a more profound symbol of sorcery associated with magic and power. This contrast illustrates how such a mark can carry different meanings across various contexts and time periods, emphasizing the character's unique journey and experiences. The mention of a smallpox vaccination scar highlights the intersection of medical history and the perception of magic. While one mark signifies protection and healing through science, the other is steeped in mystique and the supernatural. This duality invites readers to consider how society interprets scars and symbols, revealing deeper themes of identity and societal judgment in Gabaldon’s narrative.
