Explore Napoleon Bonaparte's fascinating sex life, from his first sexual experiences to his complex relationship with his great love, Josephine. Learn about the bidding on his 'shrivelled eel' and his desire for a dynasty. Discover the impact of his traumatic experiences on his mental state and delve into the intimate details of his personal relationships. Plus, updates on the 'Napoleon' film release and podcast promotions.
Napoleon had an aversion and discomfort around sex, viewing it as weak and distracting while perceiving himself as logical and rational.
Napoleon and Josephine's passionate yet tumultuous relationship was filled with challenges including previous affairs, pressure for heirs, and rumors of infidelity.
Deep dives
Napoleon's Awkward Teenage Years and First Sexual Encounters
Napoleon had a difficult teenage life and struggled to fit in due to his Corsican background and lack of charm. He lost his virginity at 18 in a brothel but had an aversion and discomfort around sex. He viewed himself as logical and rational, while he perceived sex as weak and distracting. However, he had several affairs throughout his life, including with Josephine, a Polish aristocrat, and acknowledged illegitimate children.
Napoleon and Josephine's Tumultuous Relationship
Napoleon and Josephine's relationship was passionate, but also filled with turbulence. They married in 1796, but faced challenges including Josephine's previous affairs, the pressure for heirs, and rumors of Napoleon's own infidelity. Despite the difficulties, they were deeply in love and remained devoted to one another. When they eventually divorced due to the need for an heir, Josephine received favorable terms, retaining her title, her money, and living comfortably. Napoleon was devastated by her death and deeply mourned her loss.
The Influence of Josephine on Napoleon
Josephine played a significant role in Napoleon's life and career. Besides being his romantic partner, she was charming, intellectual, and socially well-connected. She provided emotional support and solace to Napoleon, acting as a haven for him in his turbulent life. Her influence extended beyond their personal relationship, as Napoleon relied on her connections and networks. Despite occasional conflicts and separations, they were a powerful and influential couple.
Contentious Stories: Napoleon's Famous Penis and Last Words
There are two contentious stories surrounding Napoleon's legacy. One is the tale of Napoleon's alleged penis, which was reportedly removed during his autopsy and displayed in a museum. The authenticity of this artifact is debated. The other story involves Napoleon's last words, with some sources suggesting that he uttered 'Josephine' before his death, while others contest its validity. Regardless, these stories contribute to the enduring fascination with Napoleon's personal life.
Napoleon Bonaparte has been described in many way throughout history. Conquerer. Lover. Legend. Shrivelled Eel?
Perhaps you haven't heard the last description before, but that's how a journalist described Napoleon's 'penis' when it went up for auction in 1977.
Yes, you read that correctly, and it sold for $3000. Today Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with Dan Snow to talk all about the adventures of Napoleon's 'shrivelled eel'...from his first sexual experiences to his great love, Josephine.
Ridley Scott's Napoleon is out in cinemas from November 22nd.
This podcast was edited by Dougal Patmore and produced by Stuart Beckwith.
The senior producers were Charlotte Long and Mariana Des Forges.
Don’t miss out on the best offer in history! Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 for 3 months with code BETWIXTTHESHEETS1 sign up now for your 14-day free trial https://historyhit/subscription/
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