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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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'!

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.

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.

In this fascinating discussion, Tudor expert Nicola Tallis delves into the life of Anne Boleyn, the woman who captured Henry VIII's heart and altered England's future. Tallis reveals how Anne, a commoner, navigated the treacherous Tudor court with her unique charm and strategic prowess. They explore the complexities of her tumultuous relationship with both Henry and Catherine of Aragon, the political intrigue leading to her tragic downfalls, and her lasting legacy through her daughter, Elizabeth. Discover the true power struggles behind Anne's story!

Evidence shows us that women gladiators fought in front of baying crowds in Ancient Rome.Who were these women? How would these fights have played out? And what did the rest of Rome think of women taking up such a masculine space?Joining Kate is historian and expert in all things Ancient Rome, Emma Southon, author of A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women, to help us explore how gender plays out in this unique area of Roman life.This episode was edited by Tom Delargy. The producer was Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.All music from Epidemic Sounds/All3 Media.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.  You can take part in our listener survey here.Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.