Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

Ancient Goddesses of Sex and War

Nov 17, 2023

Returning friend of Betwixt, Ronald Hutton, introduces us to some of the fantastic goddesses of yore. They discuss the Ancient world's gods of sex and death, the rock chick of ancient times, and the lack of sexualization in Christianity. They explore the origins of Aphrodite and Venus, the multi-faceted goddess Inanna, and the connection between ancient goddesses and modern brands. They also talk about Aphrodite, Lilith, and the Morrigan, and the power of female libido in ancient traditions.

32:01

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Episode guests

Ronald Hutton

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Quick takeaways

Ancient goddesses like Inanna and Aphrodite embodied the duality of passionate love and violence, reflecting the adrenaline and intense emotions associated with both aspects.

Venus, originally a goddess of crops and vegetation, evolved to become the Roman goddess of love associated with flowers, fertility, and war, highlighting the intricate connection between love and violence in her character.

Deep dives

Ancient Goddesses of Love and War

In this podcast episode, the host explores ancient goddesses of love and war. These goddesses, such as Inanna and Aphrodite, were known for their associations with both passionate love and violence. The link between love and war was seen as stirring the blood and invoking similar sensations of adrenaline and intense emotions. These goddesses were revered in various ancient cultures, from Sumeria to Ireland, and were seen as powerful figures who combined beauty, sexuality, and a fierce warrior spirit. The podcast also touches on the later Christian influence and its contrast with the worship of these goddesses.

Introduction

2min

Ancient Goddesses: Sex, War, and the Divine

9min

Inanna: The Goddess of Love, War, and the Underworld

10min

The Connection Between Venus and Inanna's Daughters

3min

Ancient Goddesses: Aphrodite, Lilith, and the Morrigan

10min

Wrapping up the conversation and podcast credits

3min

Sex and death are often intertwined: one is the start of creation, the other is the end.

And as we’ll learn in today’s episode, ancient battlefields were the setting of intimate acts, too. One on one, heart pounding, adrenaline pumping and picking out a partner to…engage with.

And so it makes sense that the Ancient world would have gods that meet both needs - sex and death.

Joining Kate today is returning friend of Betwixt, Ronald Hutton, to introduce us to some of the fantastic goddesses of yore. Who was the original rock chick? Who was punching above their weight with one goddess? And why don’t religions such as Christianity sexualise their deity?

Let’s go Betwixt the Sheets to find out.

This episode was edited by Tom Delargy. The producer was Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.

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