The Notable Titles of a Pirate Captain’s Wife

In the world of pirates, a pirate captain's wife held a unique position. The traditional term for such a wife would often vary based on her age and status. Let's explore the fascinating terminology associated with pirate husbands' partners.

Shakal: The Early Years

At the beginning of a ship's voyage, the female companion of a pirate captain was known as a Shakal. This term is derived from the popular phrase “shake a leg,” which, in pirate vernacular, meant that if a ship was in port, the crew could bring their female companions onboard. However, if the call for morning muster was given, and no appendage was visible from the bunks, the sailor could simply stay in bed and be excused from the duty as the “Shakal” did not need to attend.

Move Over Shakal, for a Widow

As the pirate captain's wife aged, she was often referred to as a widow. This moniker would be used until her death or depending on the specific context of the ship's crew. It's important to note that this term was used for all other female crew members or passengers, not just the captain's wife originally. However, in later years, the term transformed specifically to denote the captain's wife.

A Special Mention: The Notable Mrs. Morgan

Not all pirate wives were called widows, as there were some notable exceptions. The one exception that stands out is Mary Morgan, who was a well-known pirate and even served as the governor-general of Jamaica. She was not merely referred to as a captain's widow but retained the title of Mrs. Morgan throughout her illustrious career, emphasizing her notable status and long life within the pirate community.

Dieu-le-Veut: A Fabled Pirate

There was a story of a pirate captain's wife named Dieu-le-Veut, which translates to “God Wills It” in French. This name was given to her because she seemed to get whatever she wanted. Such a pirate wife reflected the strong and independent nature often associated with female pirates in historical lore. Professionally, she was recognized not just as a companion but as a powerful figure who contributed greatly to her husband's success.

The Protector: Lynne

Another term for a pirate captain's wife is Lynne, which is a playful reference to how she would often protect her husband, much like a barnacle clings to the hull of a ship—firmly and unwavering. This term highlights her protective and loyal nature, reminiscent of a limpet clinging to the keel of a ship.

A Pirate's Joke: Arirlene and Beyond

A more playful and humorous term for a pirate wife was once Arirlene. However, it's important to mention that this term is outdated, and it has since been replaced by Selene, signifying a shift in nomenclature. This play on words not only adds levity to the pirate lifestyle but also reflects the evolving nature of language and titles in the pirate community.

A Final Thought

While the language and titles associated with a pirate wife have changed over time, it's vital to remember that their roles and significance were integral to the daily lives and prosperity of pirate crews. Despite the evolution of terminology, the respect and affection for these women endure. Whether referred to as a Shakal, a widow, or even as Dieu-le-Veut, the pirate captain's wife remains a crucial and respected part of the pirate lore.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term for a pirate captain's wife has evolved over time. Whether you refer to her as a Shakal, a widow, Dieu-le-Veut, or even Arirlene, the central importance of a pirate wife in the culture and storytelling of the pirate world remains undeniable. These titles represent more than just names; they symbolize the strength and respect afforded to these women in a world dominated by male imagery.