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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
11 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 46min
Sex Work in the Renaissance
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.
15 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 44min
Inside America's Famous Sex Study
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.
18 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 35min
Medieval Sex Work
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.
5 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 49min
What Did Jane Austen Know About Sex?
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.
Jun 6, 2025 • 43min
Sex Work in Ancient Rome
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.
Jun 3, 2025 • 37min
Could You Survive Medieval Childbirth?
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.
12 snips
May 30, 2025 • 30min
The Truth About The Minotaur
Historian Jasmine Elmer, an expert on Greek mythology, dives deep into the myth of the Minotaur. She unravels the complex origins of this half-bull, half-man creature, connecting it to human desires and societal taboos. The dark tale of Pasiphae's love for the bull and the implications of King Minos’s choices expose themes of shame and morality. Elmer also explores the Minotaur's symbolism in Minoan culture and how it reflects on masculinity and monstrosity, while touching on Picasso’s artistic interpretations that echo its duality.
11 snips
May 27, 2025 • 52min
The Murderous Affairs of King James
Join Gareth Russell, a historian and author of 'Queen James,' as he details the scandalous life of King James VI & I. Discover the political intrigue surrounding the murder plot of the handsome Bonnie Earl of Moray and how King James navigated personal desires amidst royal responsibilities. Delve into the eerie backdrop of Scottish witch trials and explore the intense rivalries within the nobility. With humor and tension, this conversation reveals the complex interplay of romance, power, and scandal in 17th-century Scotland.
6 snips
May 23, 2025 • 38min
Victorian Beauty Standards
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.
May 20, 2025 • 44min
The Pill: Sexual Liberation?
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.
