Outlander as Public History: Dr. Alex Dold on Making History and Reading Accessible

If you’re a fan of Outlander, the historical fiction series set in Scotland, like I am, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I talk with Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold, a literary scholar and historian known as the “Doctor of Outlander,” about her academic journey and career path.  We discuss how historical fiction can become public history — inviting people to connect with history beyond textbooks and classrooms.

During this episode, you’ll learn how Outlander and other historical fiction can build bridges between fans, public audiences, and academic inquiry. Alex also shares insights from her own path — from studying literature in Germany to completing a PhD in Scotland on Outlander as public history.  You'll hear how that journey reshaped her understanding of how stories can make reading and history more accessible for everyone.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How historical fiction functions as public history
• Why stories like Outlander make history feel accessible and emotionally resonant
• Dr. Alex Dold’s academic journey — from pursuing language and literature to transforming it into public-facing scholarship
• Practical ways listeners can continue engaging with history and reading outside formal academic spaces

Why This Matters

Historical fiction often gets dismissed as “just entertainment.” Alex’s work reframes it as public history.  It's a way that everyday readers and viewers connect with the past and develop meaningful questions. This episode invites listeners to:

• see the Outlander stories they love as gateways to learning,
• recognize curiosity as a valid path to knowledge, and
• think about how reading habits can lead to deeper exploration.

Guest Info

Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold is a literary scholar and historian whose research focuses on historical fiction as public history. She completed her PhD in history examining the Outlander novels at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Centre for History, Dornoch.  Dr. Dold explored the role of Outlander in shaping how people engage with history beyond traditional academic spaces. 

You can find out more about Dr. Dold and her scholarship below:
https://alexdold.com/

Outlander

Dr. Diana Gabaldon is the author of the award-winning The Outlander series.  You can learn more about about the series and Diana here.  

The final season of Outlander airs in March 2026 on STARZ.  

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