Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Shag, Marry, Kill: Roman Emperor Edition
Aug 29, 2025
Join historian Emma Southern, a returning guest known for her engaging podcast 'History is Sexy.' In this lively discussion, they playfully compare Roman emperors using ‘Shag, Marry, Kill,’ revealing the quirks and characteristics of figures like Commodus and Marcus Aurelius. They delve into beauty standards of ancient Rome, a selfless act of an emperor to avoid conflict, and the stark contrasts between Otho and Aurelius. With humor and historical insight, this conversation brings ancient leaders to life in unexpected ways.
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Episode notes
Ridiculing Emperors As Modern Catharsis
- The hosts reclaim modern power to ridicule ancient emperors safely across time.
- This frames the episode as playful historical critique rather than strict scholarship.
How 'Snog Marry Avoid' Worked
- Emma explains Snog Marry Avoid as a millennial makeover TV show that judged women harshly.
- Producers refashioned alternative styles into a narrow 'natural' ideal for public approval.
Roman Judgment Mirrors Modern TV Shaming
- Romans were judgmental about appearance and morality, similar to modern makeover shows.
- The hosts invert that by judging male emperors instead of women.
