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

Explore the practice of self-sacrifice in ancient India, including the controversial practice of widows sacrificing themselves on funeral pyres. Delve into historical events and emotions, such as the heartbreak of Queen Elizabeth and Lady Jane Grey's execution. Learn about the presence of self-sacrifice throughout history and various cultures, including heroic acts in war and religious sacrifices. Conclude with a discussion about the host's book, upcoming episodes, and a special discount for HistoryHit subscribers.

Explore the historical attitudes towards sex workers, the impact of sex work on women's agency, intriguing stories of historical figures and events, the complexities of sex work, and the urging for policymakers to consider sex workers' perspectives in this fascinating podcast on the history of sex for sale.

This episode explores the role fear has played in shaping history, from justifying rule and power to inducing panic through new technologies. It also discusses how fear was used to justify colonialism and the fears and anxieties of the industrial revolution. The episode highlights the impact of fear on society and historical events, emphasizing the complex relationship between fear and freedom.

Berlin in the early 1930s was a place of incredible liberation for its queer community. There were over 100 gay clubs, and Magnus Hirschfeld’s Institute for Sexual Science - the first sexology research centre in the world - developed pioneering gender assignment surgery. Sadly, with the Nazis rising to power, dark days were to come. What was it like for the gay community during this time? How did the Nazis react to a high ranking officer being openly gay and part of this community? And what was the legacy of Magnus Hirschfeld’s work?In today’s episode, Kate is joined by Robert Beachy, historian and author of Gay Berlin: Birthplace of a Modern Identity, to find out. This episode was edited and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long. If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting. It would mean the world to us!Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Kate Lister, Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Mary Beard and more.Get 50% off your first 3 months with code BETWIXT.Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at historyhit.com/subscribe.You can take part in our listener survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK

Sally Coulthard, Author of Superstition - the History of Common Folk Beliefs, explores the origins and meanings behind our most common superstitions. Topics include crossing fingers as a religious gesture, the origins of touching wood in animism, and bizarre historical rituals.

The polyamory movement has a long and interesting history. It takes in Pilgrims meeting Native American Indians, Mormons having their take on it, and a modern version born from 60s counterculture and the civil rights movement.But what beliefs underpin this lifestyle choice? And who are the figureheads who have defined it historically?Today we’re joined by Glen Olsen, author of 50 Years of Polyamory in America, to find out more.This episode was edited by Siobhan Dale, and produced by senior producer Charlotte Long.If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting. It would mean the world to us!Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Kate Lister, Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Mary Beard and more.Get 50% off your first 3 months with code BETWIXT. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at historyhit.com/subscribe.You can take part in our listener survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK

Emmy award-winning scientist and author Sheril Kirshenbaum joins to explore the history, science, and societal perception of kissing. Topics include the origin of kissing, cultural variations, the chemical basis of a romantic kiss, and gender differences in views of kissing.

Most of us present ourselves with some form of cosmetic, so it’s strange that historically there’s been so much judgement around the use of it.It’s something that’s been there from the Ancient world to the present day, and speaks to so much of the human experience.Today we’re joined by Susan Stewart, author of Painted Faces - A Colourful History of Make-Up, to answer questions such as, how did religion shape beauty trends? What does make-up tell us about different social standings through time? And what were the effects of Queen Elizabeth’s lead-based face powders? Spoiler: it wasn’t the most beautiful result.This episode was edited by Tom Delargy and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long. If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards here. It would mean the world to us!Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Kate Lister, Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Mary Beard and more.Get 50% off your first 3 months with code BETWIXT. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at historyhit.com/subscribe.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Meet Eleanor Aquitaine, a badass medieval woman who was queen several times and possibly the most powerful woman in medieval Europe. In this episode, we explore her scandalous love affairs, her political influence and involvement in crusades, and the baseless rumors and sexist double standards she faced. Discover the complexities of her life, from her marriages to Louis VII and Henry II, her imprisonment, and her role in her family and society.

Discover the fascinating history and importance of lube, from ancient China to modern times. Explore its gendered aspects and the stigma surrounding its purchase. Learn about ancient lubricants like red seaweeds, olive oil, and yams, and the demand for different oils. Dive into the origins and uses of Vaseline and Kwad Jelly. Delve into the historical use of lube in dental procedures and its association with pleasure. Uncover the introduction of flavored lube and waterbeds in the 70s. Discuss the shame around buying lube and the marketing strategies used to normalize its use for women.