Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
History Hit
Join sex historian Dr 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? Join Kate as she bed-hops 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.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
Dec 26, 2025 • 42min
How Hot Was Lord Byron?
Andrew Stauffer, Professor of English and head of the Byron Society of America, dives into the notorious reputation of Lord Byron, the Romantic poet known for being 'mad, bad, and dangerous to know.' He explores Byron's numerous lovers and whether he truly fits the 'fuckboy' label. Stauffer reveals how Byron's early sexual experiences shaped his identity, the turbulent drama of his marriage to Annabella, and his passionate relationships, including a tumultuous affair with Lady Caroline Lamb. The discussion highlights Byron's duality of public persona and private turmoil.
Dec 23, 2025 • 47min
How Has Porn Changed Through History?
In this engaging discussion, Professor Kathleen Luby, an 18th-century literature specialist, dives into the intriguing history of pornography. She reveals how printed porn emerged in the 1740s and gained a narrative depth. Luby highlights the presence of queer narratives and the role of porn as social protest. She contrasts the nuanced views of the 18th century with the misogynistic tropes of the 19th century, exploring themes of consent and the evolution of sexual privacy. With a focus on lost archives, Luby invites a deeper understanding of erotic literature's impact on society.
Dec 19, 2025 • 42min
Who Was The Virgin Mary?
In this fascinating discussion, historian Sir Diarmaid MacCulloch delves into the complex legacy of the Virgin Mary. He explores the significance of her virginity in Christianity and its ties to broader cultural narratives about sex. MacCulloch contrasts early biblical depictions of Mary with the later mythologized accounts, questioning the historical basis of her perpetual virginity. He also discusses the rise of Marian devotion and its implications for gender roles in early Christian society, offering a captivating look at the intersections of faith, sexuality, and history.
Dec 16, 2025 • 53min
The Truth About Sigmund Freud
Carolyn Laubender, Head of the Department of Psychosocial and Psychoanalytic Studies at the University of Essex, dives into the complex world of Sigmund Freud. She reveals Freud's unconventional marriage and his intriguing relationship with his sister-in-law, Minna. The discussion highlights Freud's views on female sexuality, including the controversial concept of penis envy, and critiques his outdated ideas. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of selectively embracing Freud's insights while acknowledging the feminist reinterpretations that challenge his legacy. Join for a captivating exploration of Freud's life and theories!
Dec 12, 2025 • 51min
Inside the Royal Harems of the Ottoman Empire
Dr. Michael Talbot, a Professor specializing in Ottoman history and the imperial harem, reveals the hidden lives of women in the Royal Harem of the Ottoman Empire. He discusses the empire's overlooked significance and the Western misrepresentation of the harem. Listeners learn about the social dynamics of the harem, the influential roles of women like Hürrem Sultan, and the political power wielded by valide sultans. Talbot also touches on the complex nature of enslavement and the lives of ordinary women within this elite institution.
Dec 9, 2025 • 50min
The Mother of All Tudors: Child Bride to Kingmaker
Historian Lauren Johnson, author of 'Margaret Beaufort: Survivor, Rebel, Kingmaker', delves into the life of Margaret Beaufort, the unsung matriarch of the Tudor dynasty. She shares how Margaret navigated marriage at just 12, leveraging her connections to secure power. The podcast reveals her strategic moves during the Wars of the Roses, her role in funding Henry's invasion, and her influence over her son Henry VII. Johnson also challenges the narrative of Margaret as merely manipulative, painting a picture of a savvy political player who shaped history.
12 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 46min
Sex & Scandal in Ancient Egypt
In this captivating discussion, Dr. Campbell Price, an esteemed Egyptologist and curator from Manchester Museum, reveals the complex sexual landscape of Ancient Egypt. He explores how Victorian biases distorted Egypt’s sensuality and how Akhenaten challenged norms with affectionate imagery. Discover the intriguing dynamics of royal harems, same-sex relationships, and the everyday sexual lives of workers at Deir el-Medina. Plus, get a glimpse of the notorious Turin Erotic Papyrus and its satirical undertones, illuminating the depths of ancient sexuality.
Dec 2, 2025 • 53min
The Truth About Mythical Women
Historian Janina Ramirez, author of 'Legenda: The Real Women Behind the Myths That Shaped Europe,' dives into the intriguing intersection of mythical women and national identities. She explores how these figures shape perceptions despite historical women's exclusion from nation-building. Janina traces the real story of Lady Godiva, revealing the invention of her naked ride myth and discusses modern nostalgic narratives around women. From Lola Montez's disruptive influence to contemporary heroines resisting simplistic icons, the conversation is rich with insights into women's complex roles in history.
Nov 28, 2025 • 59min
Origins of Aphrodite: The Sex-Positive Goddess
Dr. Stephanie Budin, a historian specializing in ancient religions and sexuality, dives into the captivating origins of Aphrodite. She reveals Aphrodite's surprising powers beyond sexuality, including her roles in civic harmony and sea protection. Discussing her Cypriot roots and the evolution of her iconic imagery, Stephanie contrasts the Greek goddess with her Roman counterpart, Venus. She also debunks myths about sacred prostitution and sheds light on early Christian attitudes towards her, emphasizing Aphrodite's enduring influence in contemporary sexuality.
Nov 25, 2025 • 42min
The Truth About the Mitford Sisters
Join author and cartoonist Mimi Pond as she dives into the fascinating lives of the Mitford sisters. Discover the shocking political paths of Unity and Diana, who were drawn to fascism and even befriended Hitler. Mimi shares insights on the sisters' contrasting ideologies, with Jessica rebelling as a communist. Hear about Diana's tumultuous marriage to Oswald Mosley and the family's dramatic wartime experiences. This riveting discussion unveils the extraordinary dynamics of a family entrenched in scandal and history.
