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

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

We’re connected to the past in more ways than you might think. For example, the 1861 Offences against the person Act is an abortion law that is still largely in place today. What does this Victorian law dictate? How does it still effect our lives today? And who were the brave pioneers who challenged it? Today we’re joined by historian Lesley Hall to find out more about what abortion meant in the 19th century, and learn more about the contraceptive options available, too. 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lenore Wright, author of Athena to Barbie, discusses whether Barbie can be considered a feminist icon. The podcast explores Barbie's extensive career choices, the challenges of studying her in academia, Ruth Handler's vision of women's empowerment, Barbie's relationship with Ken, controversies surrounding her appearance, and the impact of Barbie dolls on children.

Linda Porter, author of historical books, joins the podcast to discuss the scandalous love lives of Scottish kings in the 15th and 16th centuries. Topics include royal affairs with commoners, the liberal attitudes towards sex in Scotland, and the consequences of these relationships. The episode also touches on the unique approach of Scottish kings to royal engagements, the visibility of Stuart kings, and the Scottish justice system.

Author Ashley Brown joins the show to discuss Althea Gibson, the pioneering tennis player who broke racial barriers to win Grand Slam titles. They explore Gibson's remarkable journey, the challenges she faced, and her enduring legacy in women's sports.