History Extra podcast Nell Gwyn: life of the week
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Jan 14, 2025 Historian Sophie Shorland, an expert on the Restoration era and author on Catherine of Braganza, dives into the vibrant life of Nell Gwyn. From her humble beginnings as an orange seller to her rise as a celebrated actress and royal mistress, Sophie highlights Gwyn's charm, wit, and resilience. The podcast explores her groundbreaking role on the English stage and her intimate bond with King Charles II, offering a captivating glimpse into the complexities of women's lives in 17th-century England.
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Nell Gwyn's Rags-to-Riches Story
- Nell Gwyn, sometimes called the "17th-century Cinderella," rose from poverty to become a royal mistress.
- She began as a child prostitute, then an actress, before catching the eye of King Charles II.
Nell Gwyn's Contested Early Life
- Nell Gwyn's early life is contested, with various locations claiming her birth.
- Records suggest she was born in London in 1650, served strong waters at a brothel, and later became a prostitute.
Orange Seller and Wit
- Nell Gwyn worked as an orange seller, a common job for prostitutes in 17th-century London theaters.
- Her wit and charm while selling oranges helped her gain recognition and connections in the theater world.
