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Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
Swearing: A F**king Long History
Jan 9, 2024
Linguist legend Deborah Cameron explores the etymology and societal perceptions of swear words throughout history. From the f-word to nicknames for genitalia, she dives into the origins and offensive connotations of these words. This episode also delves into the usage of explicit language in medieval times and the importance of proper medical terminology.
42:14
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Quick takeaways
- Swear words have evolved from religious offenses to symbols of social rebellion, reflecting changing social norms.
- Taboo words have existed throughout history, with offensive words shifting in meaning and new words emerging related to race and prejudice.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Swear Words
Swear words have a long history, evolving from religious offenses to taboo words associated with social rebellion. The shift in meanings and social acceptance can be seen in words like 'cunt,' which was once a neutral term but became offensive and reclaimed. Professor Deborah Cameron, a linguistic expert, explores the history of swear words and how they reflect changing social norms. Swear words have different effects based on social class, age, and context. While some swearing has become more acceptable, taboo words continue to hold power.
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