History Extra podcast Queer life in Georgian Britain
Oct 2, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Anthony Delaney, a historian specializing in queer history, delves into the vibrant lives of queer individuals in Georgian Britain. He highlights fascinating topics like molly houses, where same-sex attractions flourished despite societal restrictions. Delaney explores intricate themes such as love, lawbreaking, and the nuances of gender roles. He also sheds light on the way adult adoption was utilized to create secure queer households and revisits notable figures like Anne Lister and Mary Jones, emphasizing the persistence of queer identities throughout history.
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Purposeful Use Of Modern Labels
- Anthony Delaney defends using anachronistic labels like "queer" to make past histories communicable today.
- He argues terminology is a tool; telling queer histories matters more than semantic purity.
Love And Home Are Central
- Delaney found three recurring themes: lovers, lawbreakers and homemakers across queer Georgian lives.
- He says focusing on intimacy and domestic life gives a fuller, nuanced queer history.
Meaning And Use Of 'Molly'
- 'Molly' likely blended meanings: perceived softness and female-name rituals among men.
- Delaney notes 'molly' appears in social use, while legal records call men 'sodomites'.
