Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society History's Worst F*ckboys: Rasputin
Sep 26, 2025
Frances Welch, historian and author known for her expertise on the Romanovs, dives into the life of Grigory Rasputin, the notorious mystic who wormed his way into Russian royalty. They explore Rasputin’s rise from peasant to confidant of the Tsar, the mystique of his alleged healing powers, and the wild rumors of his sexual exploits, including the outlandish claim of a 13-inch penis. The podcast probes into his influence over the Romanovs, the fanatical devotion he inspired, and the dark circumstances surrounding his dramatic assassination.
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From Siberian Peasant To Court Mystic
- Rasputin rose from a Siberian peasant background to court after being noticed for alleged healing powers and joining a sect mixing sex and religion.
- Grand Duchess Militza introduced him to St. Petersburg, and his dog-healing episode helped secure his place at court.
Married Yet Notorious Rumors
- Rasputin was married but reputedly promiscuous, with family members later making lurid claims like a 13-inch penis.
- Frances Welch treats such claims skeptically and notes conflicting testimonies and later sensationalism.
Sexual Rituals As Spiritual Control
- Rasputin used banya rituals and sexualized practices to attract female followers and claim spiritual authority.
- Medical exams later questioned his potency, showing many stories about him are contradictory.
