History Extra podcast
A surprising history of sex between men
May 14, 2024
Historian Noel Malcolm uncovers a complex history of same-sex relationships in early modern Europe and the Ottoman world. He explores societal attitudes towards male-male sexual encounters, the evolution of same-sex relationships across European history, and the influence of Italian writings and English literature. Podcast discusses the transition from church to secular laws on sodomy, highlighting the nuances and complexities of historical sexual behaviors.
42:26
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Quick takeaways
- Same-sex relationships had diverse manifestations and societal attitudes in early modern Europe and the Ottoman world.
- The history of homosexuality is complex, challenging simplistic narratives and advocating for nuanced understandings.
Deep dives
Uncovering Same-Sex Relationships in History
Delving into historical archives reveals the complexity of same-sex relationships between men in early modern Europe and the Ottoman world. Documents from Venetian archives shed light on a gay sexual scandal within an embassy, prompting investigations and showcasing varied societal attitudes towards such relationships. Contrasting the standard historical narrative that same-sex relationships emerged as a fully formed identity in the 18th century, the research challenges this by examining evidence from places like Italy and the Ottoman Empire.
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