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

Did Ancient People Have Sex Toys?

Dec 27, 2024

Hallie Lieberman, a writer and sex historian, dives into the captivating history of sex toys. She discusses the origins of ancient artifacts like a 30,000-year-old phallus and the early misconceptions surrounding vibrators. Did Victorian doctors really prescribe them for medical issues? Lieberman also traces the journey of vibrators from quirky medical devices to empowering symbols for women, exploring the impact of inclusivity and modern innovations in the sex toy industry. Get ready for a thrilling exploration of pleasure through the ages!

42:10

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Episode guests

Hallie Lieberman

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Ancient sex toys, such as the 30,000-year-old stone phallus, highlight a longstanding societal discomfort with sexual expression and their intended purpose.

The myth of vibrators as medical tools for female hysteria reflects historical misunderstandings about women's sexuality and ongoing struggles for sexual autonomy.

Deep dives

The Ancient Origins of Sex Toys

The oldest known sex toy is a 30,000-year-old stone phallus discovered in Germany, sparking debates about its true purpose. Some experts argue that such artifacts might have been ceremonial objects rather than intended for sexual use due to a lack of evidence showing them used in context. This discussion reflects the ongoing societal discomfort surrounding the acknowledgment of sexual aids, as interpretations often shift to minimize the sexual implications of these items. The difficulty in categorizing these ancient artifacts illustrates a long-standing societal apprehension regarding sexual expression.

Intro

3min

Unearthing Historical Sexuality

12min

Historical Significance of Sex Toys

4min

The Evolution of Vibrators: From Medical Oddities to Feminist Icons

14min

The Evolution of Pleasure: From Massager to Sexual Aid

5min

The Evolution of Sex Toys and Inclusivity

6min

The Future of Sex Toys: Innovations and Women’s Needs

6min

Dating back some 30,000 years, sex toys have a long (no pun intended) and fascinating history.

What were the earliest sex toys like? How did technology change them? And did Victorian doctors really prescribing them for back pain?

In today's episode, we're revisiting an episode where Kate was joined by writer, sex and gender historian Hallie Lieberman to discuss the first dildo, the myth of the vibrator, and more.

Find out more about Hallie's book, Buzz: The Stimulating History of the Sex Toy, here.

This episode was produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Seyi Adaobi.

All music from Epidemic Sounds/All3 Media.

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Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.

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