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
Aug 4, 2025 • 47min
Who Were The Vestal Virgins?
Peta Greenfield, co-author of ‘Your Cheeky Guide to the Roman Empire’, dives into the fascinating world of the Vestal Virgins. Discover the rigorous lives of these priestesses, bound by chastity vows yet holding significant societal privileges. Peta reveals what happens when a Virgin breaks her pledge and discusses the complex interplay of power, purity, and peril they navigated. From their sacred duties maintaining the eternal flame to the uncertain future post-service, the conversation offers a compelling glimpse into ancient Roman culture.
11 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 47min
Royal Sex: Cleopatra
Join Egyptologist Sarah Parcak as she busts myths about Cleopatra's sex life and reputation. Delve into her complex relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, revealing the political savvy behind her romantic entanglements. Discover whether she really invented a bee-powered vibrator, and how her image as a seductress overshadows her intelligence and leadership. Parcak's insights challenge modern perceptions of powerful women, inviting listeners to reconsider Cleopatra's multifaceted legacy in history.
Jul 29, 2025 • 37min
How Incestuous Were The Habsburgs?
In this enlightening discussion, historian Estelle Paranque, a descendant of the Habsburgs and Associate Professor at Northeastern University London, takes us deep into the world of the infamous royal family. She reveals the shocking extent of their incestuous practices, exploring the genetic consequences faced by figures like Charles II of Spain. Paranque dives into how these marriages affected their power, health, and public perception, comparing their legacy to modern shows like 'Game of Thrones' and unpacking the scandals that came with their unusual family dynamics.
Jul 25, 2025 • 48min
Royal Sex: Elizabeth I
Join Professor Anna Whitelock, a specialist in monarchy history, as she unpacks the fascinating life of Queen Elizabeth I. Was she truly a virgin or just a master of political maneuvering? The conversation dives into Elizabeth's turbulent youth, her intriguing relationship with Robert Dudley, and the pressures of being an unmarried queen. Whitelock also reveals how Elizabeth's sexuality influenced her rule and public persona, alongside the romantic myths that still surround her legacy today.
Jul 22, 2025 • 47min
Victorian Sex Work Scandal: The Prince And The Telegraph Boys
Join John Scott, Head of the School of Justice at Queensland University of Technology and an expert on male sex work, as he unravels the Cleveland Street scandal of 1889. This shocking incident revealed a web of male sex workers hidden within London's elite, igniting public outrage and media frenzy. John dives into the complexities of societal attitudes towards male versus female sex work, exposing issues of class and power dynamics. Discover how this scandal continues to shape perceptions of sex work and the inequalities still present today.
Jul 18, 2025 • 47min
Royal Sex: Catherine the Great
Virginia Rounding, an expert on Catherine the Great and author of 'Catherine the Great: Love, Sex and Power', dives into the scandalous life of one of history's most fascinating rulers. The conversation explores the enduring myths about her death, her strategic romantic liaisons, and the double standards women faced in her time. Rounding reveals how Catherine navigated political intrigues while forming powerful alliances, ultimately reshaping Russian society and leaving a legacy that still intrigues today.
6 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 46min
Sex Lives of the Roman Legion
Join Rome-based historian Alex Meddings as he uncovers the lively dynamics of Roman army life, including the secrets of legionnaires' romantic escapades during evening encampments. Explore the appeal of military careers, the complexities of soldier-civilian life, and the unexpected roles women played in military society. Delve into the intricate interplay of sexuality and masculinity that shaped the Roman army, revealing both its rigorous codes and the nuanced relationships among soldiers. It's a fascinating look at history beyond the battlefield!
Jul 11, 2025 • 54min
Royal Sex: Marie Antoinette
Joining the discussion is Catriona Seth, a Professor of French Literature renowned for her expertise in French history and culture. She unravels the intriguing complexities of Marie Antoinette's life, revealing the misconceptions surrounding her lavish lifestyle and infamous quote about cake. Explore her tumultuous marriage to Louis XVI, marked by intimacy struggles and public scrutiny. Delve into the scandalous rumors that plagued her reign, including her close, mysterious bond with Count Axel von Fersen, and reflect on her tragic final days amid revolution.
10 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 34min
The Power of Medieval Gossip
In this engaging conversation, Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and co-host of the Gone Medieval podcast, dives into the intriguing world of medieval gossip. She reveals how women used gossip as a powerful social tool while discussing its negative perceptions over time. Eleanor humorously contrasts the different roles men and women played in gossip dynamics, highlighting the unique challenges women faced. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of gossip and its impact on friendships and societal change during the medieval period.
7 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 48min
Royal Sex: Queen Victoria
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.
