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
Dec 27, 2024 • 42min
Did Ancient People Have Sex Toys?
Hallie Lieberman, a writer and sex historian, dives into the captivating history of sex toys. She discusses the origins of ancient artifacts like a 30,000-year-old phallus and the early misconceptions surrounding vibrators. Did Victorian doctors really prescribe them for medical issues? Lieberman also traces the journey of vibrators from quirky medical devices to empowering symbols for women, exploring the impact of inclusivity and modern innovations in the sex toy industry. Get ready for a thrilling exploration of pleasure through the ages!
Dec 24, 2024 • 48min
Sex Life & Scandal of Charles Dickens
Miriam Margolyes, a national treasure and devoted Charles Dickens super-fan, delves into the scandalous side of the iconic author. She illuminates Dickens' harsh Victorian upbringing and the controversies surrounding his relationships with women. Margolyes shares insights on his tumultuous marriage and the intriguing character of Miss Havisham, revealing the deeper themes of love and betrayal in his works. The conversation also navigates the complexities of his literary legacy, blending his genius with his personal imperfections.
Dec 20, 2024 • 37min
Kateryn Parr | Secret Lives of the Six Wives
Join Tudor expert Nicola Tallis, renowned for her insights into Henry VIII's wives, as she delves into the life of Catherine Parr, the king's last wife. Discover how Parr navigated the treacherous Tudor court and her dramatic rise from widowhood to queen. Tallis reveals Parr's unique intellect and her groundbreaking role as a published author. From narrowly escaping execution for her religious beliefs to her controversial second marriage, Catherine's legacy and love inspire listeners, offering a compelling look into a life filled with resilience amidst royal chaos.
Dec 17, 2024 • 44min
How Did People Smell in Medieval Times?
Eleanor Jackson, curator of the British Library’s exhibition on medieval women, and Tasha Marks, an artist known for her sensory creations, dive into the intriguing world of medieval scents. They discuss how smells can access hidden histories and illuminate women's stories from that era. Listeners learn about medieval perfumes, hygiene misconceptions, and the literary contributions of women like Christine de Pizan. The conversation reveals how these sensory experiences challenge stereotypes and connect us to the rich tapestry of the past.
Dec 13, 2024 • 38min
Catherine Howard | Secret Lives of the Six Wives
In this insightful discussion, Nicola Tallis, a renowned Tudor expert and author, sheds light on Catherine Howard, the often-overlooked fifth wife of Henry VIII. The podcast explores Catherine's tragic rise to queenship, her youthful ambition, and the scandalous affairs that led to her downfall. Tallis reveals the intense pressures she faced in a patriarchal court, the complexities of her relationship with Henry, and her emotional entanglements with Thomas Culpepper. The tragic fate of this young queen is examined, highlighting her plight and legacy.
5 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 1h 1min
History (and Future) of Dating
Francesca Beauman, author of "Shapely Ankle Preferr’d," dives into the quirky world of lonely hearts advertisements, revealing how they transformed dating from formal courtship to personalized pursuits. She shares intriguing stories, including the impact of World War I on these ads. Ana Kirova, CEO of dating app Feeld, discusses the evolution to modern dating apps and Gen Z's expectations, highlighting societal shifts and technological influences that have reshaped the search for love today.
Dec 6, 2024 • 40min
Anne of Cleves | Secret Lives of the Six Wives
Nicola Tallis, a Tudor expert and scholar, joins Kate Lister to shine a light on Anne of Cleves, often dismissed as 'ugly' in history. They discuss Anne's rise from obscurity to becoming a savvy player in the Tudor court, navigating the treachery surrounding her marriage to Henry VIII. The conversation reveals the awkwardness of their first meeting, the unfair judgments she faced, and how Anne ultimately emerged as one of the more fortunate queens, enjoying a unique independence after her annulment.
Dec 3, 2024 • 38min
History of Celibacy
Elisa Sobo, a Professor of Anthropology at San Diego State University, and Sandra Bell, a Durham University Professor, delve into the intriguing history and cultural significance of celibacy. They explore how celibacy served as a tool for power, especially for figures like Queen Elizabeth I, and examine its implications across various cultures. The pair discusses celibacy's role in shaping societal norms, gender dynamics, and how it can symbolize resistance against patriarchal structures. Plus, they touch on modern movements like 'No Nut November'!
Nov 29, 2024 • 39min
Jane Seymour | Secret Lives of the Six Wives
Nicola Tallis, a Tudor expert, sheds light on Jane Seymour, the underestimated third wife of Henry VIII. Was she truly meek, or did she possess a cunning intellect? The discussion reveals how Jane cleverly won Henry's favor, her triumph in producing a male heir, and the challenges she faced during childbirth. Tallis explores Jane's tragic demise just days after giving birth to Edward, emphasizing its lasting impact on Henry and the Tudor dynasty. Tune in for insights into the complexities of ambition and motherhood in the royal court.
15 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 45min
History of Pubic Hair
In this engaging discussion, Professor Jill Burke, author of "How to Be a Renaissance Woman," dives into the surprising history of pubic hair. She reveals how grooming practices evolved from Ancient Greece to the Renaissance and explores the bizarre use of pubic wigs, or merkins. Jill also uncovers the dark links between hair removal and witch trials, alongside societal pressures on women's grooming choices. With insights into how beauty standards shifted over centuries, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the intersection of body hair and cultural norms.
