Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
History Hit
Join sex historian Kate Lister on Betwixt the Sheets as she gets intimate with the stories that would make your history teacher blush.What were the Victorians really like behind closed (bedroom) doors? How did the Black Death favour women in medieval England? And what was Caesar like in the sack? She'll be bed-hopping around different time periods; from ancient civilisations, to the middle ages, to renaissance and early modern...right up to now.You’ll laugh, you’ll wince, and you’ll ask yourself how much has actually changed.So join Kate Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society - a podcast from History Hit.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.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 1min
Alexander the Great's Mummy Issues: Olympias
Tristan Hughes, host of The Ancients podcast and expert in ancient history, dives into the life of Olympias, the formidable mother of Alexander the Great. They discuss Olympias's significant influence in Macedonian politics and her tumultuous marriage to Philip II. The episode reveals her mystical practices and complex relationship with snakes, and how she fought for Alexander's legitimacy amidst rivalries. Hughes also highlights her fierce protection of her grandson's legacy after Alexander’s death, showcasing the relentless power struggles in ancient Macedonia.
Sep 2, 2025 • 45min
Histories Worst F*ckboys: Charles II
Dr. David Taylor, an Associate Professor of English at Oxford University, takes us into the wild world of Charles II, the Merry Monarch. They discuss whether it was better to be one of his many mistresses or his wife, Catherine, as well as the political fallout from his numerous affairs. The turbulent love life of Charles, including his relationships with women like Nell Gwyn and Lucy Walters, showcases the intertwining of romance and power. Taylor's insights on Restoration England reveal a society where scandal and pleasure ruled, turning history into a captivating tale.
Aug 29, 2025 • 35min
Shag, Marry, Kill: Roman Emperor Edition
Join historian Emma Southern, a returning guest known for her engaging podcast 'History is Sexy.' In this lively discussion, they playfully compare Roman emperors using ‘Shag, Marry, Kill,’ revealing the quirks and characteristics of figures like Commodus and Marcus Aurelius. They delve into beauty standards of ancient Rome, a selfless act of an emperor to avoid conflict, and the stark contrasts between Otho and Aurelius. With humor and historical insight, this conversation brings ancient leaders to life in unexpected ways.
Aug 26, 2025 • 49min
Origins of Virginity
Join Anke Bernau, a senior lecturer in medieval literature, as she unravels the intriguing myths and historical narratives surrounding virginity. She dives into the cultural implications for women across different eras and the societal pressures that shape these perceptions. The discussion highlights the harrowing tales of virgin saints and critiques the misconceptions tied to virginity and the hymen. Bernau also explores how modern purity culture continues to influence identity and sexuality, revealing virginity as a complex journey rather than a simple milestone.
Aug 22, 2025 • 45min
How Hot Was Henry VIII?
Join historian Suzannah Lipscomb, renowned for her expertise in Tudor history, as she delves into the intriguing life of Henry VIII. Discover how vanity, a jousting accident, and personal struggles shaped the king's reign. From the scandalous trial of Anne Boleyn to the king's declining health and hygiene issues, Lipscomb reveals the complexities behind Henry's powerful public facade. Explore the tension between his confidence and insecurities, offering a fascinating glimpse into the duality of a ruler known for both charm and turmoil.
9 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 42min
The Real Virgin Mary
Diarmaid Macculloch, an esteemed author and historian, delves into the complexities surrounding the Virgin Mary and her significance in Christianity. He challenges conventional views of virginity as a mere social construct, providing historical context. The discussion explores the dichotomy between Mary and Eve, and how early Christian thinkers shaped the church's views on sexuality. Macculloch also examines the evolving perceptions of virginity in modern times, highlighting the implications for both women and broader societal norms.
Aug 15, 2025 • 40min
How Wild Were The Last Days Of Rome?
Emma Southon, a historian renowned for her insights into Roman history and sexuality, joins the discussion on the myths of Rome's decadence. Was it really full of orgies as the empire crumbled? Southon debunks popular misconceptions, revealing the complex realities behind the decline. She highlights how plagues, climate change, and invading Goths played significant roles in Rome's downfall. The conversation also touches on the dual perceptions of conquerors like Alaric and the resilience of Rome itself in the wake of chaos.
Aug 12, 2025 • 38min
The Strangest Tudor & Stuart Aphrodisiacs
Join Dr. Jennifer Evans, a historian specializing in early modern history, as she dives into the bizarre world of Tudor and Stuart aphrodisiacs. Discover the ridiculous yet fascinating ingredients like sparrows and garlic that were believed to ignite passion. Evans humorously links mystical remedies and anatomical foods to romantic attraction, dissecting how societal influences shaped views on desire and fertility. Explore how these quirky beliefs reflect cultural norms and medical practices of the time, shining a light on the complexities of attraction in historical marriages.
Aug 8, 2025 • 48min
Did Henry VI Have A Sex Coach?
Join historian Lauren Johnson, an expert on Henry VI, as she unravels the complexities of a king battling royal expectations and personal struggles. Discover the intriguing dynamics of his controversial marriage to Margaret of Anjou and the challenges of intimacy in a turbulent time. Johnson sheds light on Henry's misunderstood masculinity, his mental health issues, and the societal pressures he faced, providing a fresh perspective on royal life that blurs the lines between power, governance, and emotion.
Aug 4, 2025 • 47min
Who Were The Vestal Virgins?
Peta Greenfield, co-author of ‘Your Cheeky Guide to the Roman Empire’, dives into the fascinating world of the Vestal Virgins. Discover the rigorous lives of these priestesses, bound by chastity vows yet holding significant societal privileges. Peta reveals what happens when a Virgin breaks her pledge and discusses the complex interplay of power, purity, and peril they navigated. From their sacred duties maintaining the eternal flame to the uncertain future post-service, the conversation offers a compelling glimpse into ancient Roman culture.
