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

Joining the discussion is Rachel Rowe, an author and historian from the University of Edinburgh, specializing in Victorian beauty standards, particularly regarding black models. The conversation dives into why pale skin was idealized and how black bodies were perceived in a racially biased society. Rowe highlights the stories of figures like Sarah Bartman and Fanny Eaton, illustrating the exploitation and challenges faced by women of color. The episode also touches on Black Dandyism and the cultural appropriation in 19th-century beauty standards, offering a nuanced look at this complex legacy.

Donna Drucker, a historian from Columbia University and author of 'Contraception: A Concise History,' dives into the history and impact of the contraceptive pill. They discuss its revolutionary role in women's liberation and the complex legacy surrounding its development. Drucker highlights the darker aspects of the pill’s trials and the ethical issues tied to its history, including eugenics and racism. The conversation reveals how the pill transformed societal norms and relationships, paving the way for reproductive autonomy.

Join historian Nicola Tallis, a Tudor expert, as she unpacks the era's bizarre beauty standards. Discover why royalty had worse teeth than commoners and the absurdity of lead-based cosmetics. Explore the strange intersection of beauty and witchcraft, alongside how societal pressures shaped perceptions of attractiveness. The discussion highlights the complexity of hygiene practices and the obsession with pale skin and plucked hair in a society that valued both wealth and perceived morality in its looks.

Peter K. Andersson, historian and author of ‘The Dandy: A People’s History of Sartorial Splendour’, joins the discussion on the rebellious flair of dandyism. They delve into how dandyism defies societal norms and its significance in black culture. The conversation also highlights the role of fashion in shaping identity and critique, alongside the adaptation of dandy aesthetics from the 19th century to contemporary styles. Get ready for a witty exploration of how personal style can challenge and redefine societal expectations!

Eleanor Janega, a historian and author known for her expertise in medieval history, joins the host for a playful exploration of medieval beauty standards. They discuss how societal norms tied beauty to virtue, the surprising skincare routines of the time, and how the Black Death shifted fashion. The conversation humorously navigates the standards of male attractiveness and challenges faced by women, revealed through intriguing anecdotes. Plus, they touch on the social implications of ugliness and the myths surrounding dental health in the medieval era.

Join Clodagh Finn, a journalist and author of ‘Through Her Eyes: A New History of Ireland in 21 Women,’ as she uncovers the extraordinary life of Lady Betty, an 18th-century female executioner in Ireland. Discover how this trailblazer challenged gender norms in her brutal profession and the societal perceptions surrounding her role. The discussion also highlights other influential women of the time, exploring themes of survival, societal order, and the legacy of female empowerment amidst a male-dominated world.

Emma Southon, a historian and author specializing in ancient Rome, joins the discussion to explore the quirky beauty standards of the era. She shares fascinating insights on grooming routines and the cultural significance of beards during Emperor Hadrian's reign. The conversation delves into how beauty ideals connected to wealth, the extreme measures taken for attractiveness, and the enduring nature of these standards through history. Listeners will appreciate the humorous anecdotes and surprising parallels to contemporary norms in body image.

Join author and historian Jasmine Elmer, known for her work on female dragon slayers, as she unravels the complex myth of Medusa. Elmer argues that Medusa's story reflects modern issues of femininity and sexuality, exploring how societal values vilify women. The discussion highlights her tragic transformation and the misogyny woven into her narrative. Finally, they delve into Medusa's evolution into a symbol of empowerment, paralleling contemporary movements like Me Too, showcasing her legacy's relevance today.

Charismatic, passionate, insatiable - Henry VIII is known across the world as the king who had 6 wives, and a few mistresses on the side. But was Henry a romantic or a scoundrel?Kate is joined by Natalie Grueninger, host of 'Talking Tudors', to find out just how badly behaved Henry was.This episode was edited by Tom Delargy and produced by Sophie Gee. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.If you'd like to get in touch with the show you can contact us at betwixt@historyhit.com.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.  You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds.Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.

Join historian Jacqueline Murray, a Professor at the University of Guelph, as she unravels the fascinating world of medieval weddings. Discover what truly happened on wedding nights, the church's strict views on monogamy, and the importance of pleasure in the marriage bed. Dive into whimsical wedding customs and how they shaped celebrations. Murray also discusses the complex dynamics of arranged marriages and the challenges of divorce, revealing how these historical practices continue to impact our understanding of love and relationships today.