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

Join royal historian Kate Williams and journalist Robert Hardman as they delve into Queen Victoria's surprisingly passionate love life. Explore how her tumultuous relationship with Prince Albert shaped her motherhood experiences, revealing the struggles of pain and societal expectations. Discover the Victorian sexual paradoxes, where prudishness clashed with private desires, and learn how bicycles symbolized women's liberation. They also discuss sexual pleasure and marital norms, shedding light on the queen’s candid insights found in her diaries.

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Caroline Vout, an expert in classical art from the University of Cambridge, delves into why ancient Greek sculptures feature surprisingly small penises. She explores how these artistic choices reflect societal norms and views on masculinity in the ancient world. Vout highlights the significance of nudity in Greek culture and the implications for contemporary body image. Her insights reveal how ideals of masculinity from centuries ago continue to shape our understanding of gender and desire today.

Join historian Julia Laite, a professor at Birkbeck University and author of "Common Prostitutes and Ordinary Citizens," as she dives into the world of Victorian sex workers. Discover the struggles and resilience of women navigating societal stigma and harsh laws. Laite reveals the military’s controversial ties to prostitution while critiquing gender inequality and the historical fight for sex workers' rights. Through engaging anecdotes and humor, she dismantles misconceptions about sex work, challenging listeners to rethink historical narratives and their modern implications.

In this chat, Hannah Marsh, author of 'Thread, A Cesarean Story of Myth, Magic, and Medicine', unfolds the bloody history of C-sections. She traces their evolution from risky 16th-century procedures to safer modern practices, spotlighting the resilience of women like Mrs. Newfer, who thrived post-surgery. The conversation digs into societal pressures, the myths surrounding childbirth, and the historical shift from midwifery to male-dominated obstetrics, revealing a legacy intertwined with issues of race and gender.

In this engaging discussion, historian Vanessa McCarthy from the University of Toronto delves into the vibrant world of sex work in Renaissance Italy. She uncovers the legally recognized sex work industry in 16th century Bologna, revealing the complex roles of courtesans and the societal perceptions surrounding them. The conversation explores the legal challenges female sex workers faced, the duality of their experiences as victims and empowered individuals, and how shifting political tides influenced the stigmatization of sex work. McCarthy’s insights illuminate a rich yet often overlooked facet of history.

In this engaging discussion, historian Donna Drucker from Columbia University delves into the groundbreaking work of Alfred Kinsey, a pivotal figure in sexology. She unpacks Kinsey’s innovative research methods and the ethical dilemmas they ignited. The conversation highlights how societal attitudes toward sexuality evolved, particularly in response to his controversial findings on masturbation and homosexuality. Drucker also explores the unconventional personal lives of Kinsey's research team, illustrating the fascinating intersection of personal ethics and scientific inquiry.

Ruth Karras, a leading expert on medieval sexuality and sex work from Trinity College Dublin, dives into the intriguing world of medieval sex work. She discusses how, despite the rise of Christianity, sex work flourished and was often legally sanctioned. Listeners learn about the vibrant atmosphere of 1407 brothels, the complexity of the term 'spinster,' and the societal contradictions surrounding sex workers. Karras sheds light on their daily lives, clothing regulations, and the challenges they faced, revealing a nuanced perspective on sexuality in the medieval era.

Join John Mullan, a leading scholar on Jane Austen, as he uncovers the hidden depths of romance and sexuality in her timeless works. They discuss how Austen’s personal experiences shaped her narratives, from the complexities of love to societal expectations. Mullan challenges the notion of Austen as a modest spinster while revealing her sharp wit and keen observations on seduction and marital politics. The conversation also delves into the tragic potential of her legacy and the playful, risqué humor woven throughout her stories.

Join Anise Strong, an expert in Roman sex work and author of 'Prostitutes and Matrons in the Roman World', as she unravels the fascinating lives of ancient sex workers. Discover the audacious tale of a sex worker involved in a murder plot against Emperor Commodus. Explore the vibrant Floralia festival and its connection to sexuality. Strong also dives into the agency of sex workers amidst societal challenges and reveals the powerful story of Marcia, a courtesan with ties to the emperor, blending intrigue, power, and scandal in ancient Rome.

Eleanor Janega, co-host of the Gone Medieval podcast and expert in medieval history, dives deep into the daunting realities of childbirth in the Middle Ages. She reveals the crucial roles midwives played and the stark differences between the experiences of wealthy and peasant women. Janega also discusses the shifting societal views on pregnancy and abortion, as well as how traditional midwifery transitioned to a male-dominated medical system. Listen to her captivating insights on the communal nature of births and the resilience of mothers during this perilous time.