History Extra podcast Were Roman women done dirty by modern translations?
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May 20, 2025 Joan Smith, a journalist and author of 'Unfortunately, She Was a Nymphomaniac: A New History of Rome's Imperial Women', delves into the portrayal of women in ancient Rome. She discusses how misogyny and mistranslation have created flawed narratives around powerful figures of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, notably the misunderstood Livia. Smith also highlights the harsher realities of women’s lives, exposing societal constraints that challenged notions of empowerment. This thought-provoking conversation connects historical misrepresentation to contemporary issues surrounding women's rights.
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Challenging Julia's Nymphomaniac Myth
- Joan Smith challenged a tour guide's simplified narrative about Julia, Augustus's daughter, labeled as a nymphomaniac in sources.
- She uncovered deep political motives behind Julia's exile, exposing myths taught by popular guides.
Misogyny in Translation
- Latin source texts often reveal Roman misogyny not obvious in translations.
- Translators, like Robert Graves, sometimes added their own misogynistic spin, distorting the women's images.
Livia's Villainous Legacy
- Robert Graves portrayed Livia as a murderous villain without historical evidence.
- This sensationalism shaped public perception, overshadowing the reality of Livia's role.
