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

<p>In Victorian Britain, there was no formalised state adoption. Instead, desperate mothers paid other families to take their newborns. This tragic system was known as baby farming.</p><br><p>As we’ll find out in today’s episode, Amelia Dyer was a notorious serial killer who saw this as a money-making opportunity, cruelly deceiving mothers and killing infants over a 30 year period.</p><br><p>How did she get away with it for so long? What was society’s reaction to these shocking revelations? Kate is joined by Angela Buckley, author of <em>Amelia Dyer and the Baby Farm Murders, </em>to take us back to Victorian Britain and find out.</p><br><p>If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. It would mean the world to us!</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BETWIXT</a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at historyhit.com/subscribe.</p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>How has our relationship with breast milk changed through history? Why are there associations of shame with this most natural act, of us consuming humanities first food? And what does the formation of our galaxy have to do with it?</p><br><p>Joining Kate today is <a href="https://www.joannawolfarth.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Joanna Wolfarth</a>, art historian and author of <a href="https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/milk-joanna-wolfarth/5026294?ean=9781474623216" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Milk: An Intimate History of Breastfeeding</em></a>, to unpack all of this and more. This episode was edited and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long. </p><br><p>If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. It would mean the world to us!</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BETWIXT</a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at historyhit.com/subscribe.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>As the UK’s second person to go through gender reassignment surgery, April Ashley was a trans trailblazer, breaking new ground fearlessly and with humour and grace.</p><br><p>She wowed the crowds of Le Carrousel as a showgirl in 1950s Paris, graced the pages of Vogue and, when accepting her MBE for services to transgender equality in 2012, she stood every bit as gracious and regal as the Queen herself.</p><br><p>April's achievements seem even more remarkable in the context of a life story replete with real hardships, from an extremely tough upbringing in post-war Liverpool to her public outing in a national newspaper by a friend.</p><br><p>Behind the demure glamour she presented, who was April Ashley? And why is it so vital that her story his heard today? Kate is joined by author and journalist Charlie Craggs to find out.</p><br><p>This episode was produced by Stuart Beckwith, and edited by Tom Delargy. The Senior Producer was Charlotte Long. </p><br><p>If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. It would mean the world to us!</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BETWIXT</a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at historyhit.com/subscribe.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>From Boudicca to Ukrainian snipers, battlefields have always contained a surprising number of women.</p><br><p>Today Kate is joined Betwixt the Sheets by Sarah Percy to get to the bottom of why women were allowed to be astronauts a full thirty years before they were allowed to fight in combat.</p><br><p>From women who disguised themselves as men in order to be allowed to fight, to the Soviet all-female regiments who Nazi Germany learnt to fear, they'll be discussing fearless women warriors on the frontline.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Sarah's book<a href="https://app.asana.com/0/1203297368601616/1203929898030638/f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> here</a>.</p><br><p>If you're enjoying Betwixt please vote for us at the British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. It would mean the world to us!</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/receipt?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>BETWIXT</u></a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at <a href="http://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>historyhit.com/subscribe</u></a>.</p><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here</u></a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In 1969 America, it was illegal to be gay in 49 out of 50 states. You could be fired from your job and evicted by your landlord if you were found out to be gay. </p><br><p>Whilst protests from the gay community and its allies had happened before there, anger against this oppression was reaching boiling point. </p><br><p>As we move past the 54th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, we take a look at the significance of this fateful night. The Big Bang moment of a large-scale civil rights movement and what now marks Pride in our calendars each year. </p><br><p>Who were the heroes who fought for LGBTQ+ rights in the years prior to what we now know as Stonewall? Why were the mafia so heavily involved the night of the riots? And what’s been the legacy of that courageous stand for civil rights in the years and decades since? </p><br><p>Joining Kate today is Ann Bausum, author of <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stonewall-Breaking-Out-Fight-Rights/dp/014751147X" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights</a>, to delve into the details of this pivotal moment in civil rights history. </p><br><p>Find out more details here: <a href="http://www.annbausum.com/stonewall.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.annbausum.com/stonewall.html</a></p><br><p>This episode was produced by Stuart Beckwith, and edited by Tom Delargy. The Senior Producer was Charlotte Long. </p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/receipt?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BETWIXT</a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at <a href="http://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">historyhit.com/subscribe</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>As the old adage goes, attitude is everything. And if there’s one attitude that stands proud above the rest it’s the utterly fabulous, camp. </p><br><p>Whether it’s embodied in Disney villains or Oscar Wilde, there’s a charm and defiance to camp that is both powerful and fun. </p><br><p>In today’s episode, Kate is joined by Paul Baker, author of <a href="https://footnotepress.com/product/camp/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Camp! The Story of the Attitude that Conquered the World</em></a><em>, </em>to discuss the origins of this fantastically outrageous trait.</p><br><p>*Trigger warning: This episode features language which some listeners may find offensive.*</p><br><p>This episode was produced and edited by Stuart Beckwith. The Senior Producer was Charlotte Long. </p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/receipt?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BETWIXT</a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at <a href="http://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">historyhit.com/subscribe</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Depictions of dicks have been an obsession in art for as long as art has been around, but the act of sending a real life image of ones penis is a cultural phenomenon all of its own. </p><br><p>Additionally, the implications of receiving a dick pic nowadays isn’t just the image itself, but the context of it being one that you maybe didn’t ask for - a form of sexual harassment and violence in and of itself. </p><br><p>So why do men send them? Is there an equal culture of a female equivalent? And what have images of dicks meant to different cultures historically? </p><br><p>Today Kate is joined by Andrea Waling, researcher and author of <em>Exploring the Cultural Phenomenon of the Dick Pic, </em>to look long and hard into all of these questions and more. </p><br><p>Senior Producer Charlotte Long. Edited and mixed by Tom Delargy.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/receipt?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BETWIXT</a>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at <a href="http://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">historyhit.com/subscribe</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Bard’s work featured many references to sex and sexuality - some more obvious than others. But what does the work reveal about the sexuality of Shakespeare himself? </p><br><p>Despite being married with three kids to Anne Hathaway in the sleepy suburbs of Stratford-upon-Avon, there’s much to suggest he lived a more extravagant life during his visits to London. </p><br><p>Joining Kate today is author of <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Life-Author-William-Shakespeare/dp/1119605210" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>The Life of the Author: William Shakespeare</em></a>, Anna Beer, to unpick the hints and clues to the playwright’s sexuality that lay within his work. </p><br><p>Produced by Stuart Beckwith & Sophie Gee. Senior Producer Charlotte Long. Mixed by Tom Delargy. </p><br><p>Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more.</p><br><p>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 <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">historyhit.com/subscribe</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It’s a rare thing to hear first hand the experiences of marginalised people in history. So often their voices are silenced, and their histories erased. </p><br><p>Which is why Anne Lister’s diaries, which tell us in intimate details what it was like to be a proud lesbian in 19th century Yorkshire, are such an important resource. </p><br><p>What was grobbling? What is Anne Lister’s legacy? And what do her coded diaries tell us about life as a lesbian during the industrial revolution? Join us today as we delve Betwixt the Sheets on the legacy of Anne Lister, with historian Anne Choma, the lead adviser on BBC One’s series of Anne Lister, Gentleman Jack, and author of <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gentleman-Jack-Lister-Official-Companion/dp/1785944045" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">‘Gentleman Jack - The Real Anne Lister’.</a></p><br><p>Produced and edited by Stuart Beckwith. Senior Producer Charlotte Long. </p><br><p><em>Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more.</em></p><br><p><em>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code </em>BETWIXT<em>. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at </em><a href="http://access.historyhit.com/checkout?code=betwixt&plan=monthly" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>historyhit.com/subscribe</em></a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p><br></p><p>Why did Victorian doctors recommend women to lie still in solitary confinement for days after giving birth? What was the 'sit up and cough' method of contraception? (not the most reliable) And what was the level of infant mortality in the 19th century?</p><br><p>Today Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with Jessica Cox to talk about the hidden history of maternal bodies in the Victorian era, everything from fertility and contraception, to labour and child loss.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Jessica's book <a href="https://www.thehistorypress.co.uk/publication/confinement/9780750998574/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a></p><br><p>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 Worsely, Mary Beard and more.</p><br><p>Get 50% off your first 3 months with code <a href="http://access.historyhit.com/checkout?code=betwixt&plan=monthly " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>BETWIXT.</strong></a> Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up at <a href="http://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>historyhit.com/subscribe</u></a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here</u></a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p><strong>The Pre-Raphaelites: Art & Sexual Liberation</strong></p><br><p>If there’s one thing we like to embrace on this podcast, it’s a slice of controversy. Which is why today’s topic of the Pre-Raphaelites movement is such a joy to explore: this was the swinging 60s of the Victorian era. </p><br><p>A time when a group of artists, including Dante Rossetti and John Millais, refused to conform to the artistic norms at the time, and instead embraced sexuality and nature in a style that was more luscious and medieval than modern. </p><br><p>What exactly did they stand for? Who were the women that inspired them? And why did the establishment’s feathers become so ruffled? </p><br><p>Today, Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with legendary art historian Jan Marsh to find out. </p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith. </p><br><p>We’re trying to understand our audience a bit better. You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>One thing’s for certain, queer people have always been a part of society. The language may not have always been there to describe them in all of their wonderful forms, and the history books may not have always told their stories, but they have always been there. </p><br><p>To celebrate the start of Pride month, Kate is joined by author Kirsty Loehr, who’s book <em>A Short History of Queer Women</em> is here to shine a spotlight on some of the marvellous people and their lives. </p><br><p>From the woman who’s thought to be the OG lesbian in Ancient Greece, to more modern intersectional gay black feminists via a runaway lesbian pirate in the 18th century, it’s important their stories are heard. </p><br><p>Produced and edited by Stuart Beckwith. Senior Producer Charlotte Long. </p><br><p>Lyre music provided by Michael Levy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelLevyMusic" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelLevyMusic</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Any of us who have happened to see a celebrity in the wild can admit to the strange thrill you get. </p><br><p>It doesn’t matter if it’s C, D, or Z-list celebrities, even, they all count! </p><br><p>But why are we as a society so obsessed with celebrities? From Ancient Greek Gods to Kim Kardashian, our obsession has endured. And what does it say about us, when most young people just want to be famous when they grow up? Without a thought for what they might be famous <em>for</em>. </p><br><p>Kate is joined by Landon Jones, former managing editor of People Magazine and author of <em>Celebrity Nation: How America Evolved Into A Culture Of Fans And Followers. </em>He’s here to take us back through history to where it all began, speculate what the future of celebrity may hold, and share tales of his own, such as why Princess Diana refused to dance with him.</p><br><p>Produced by Sophie Gee. Senior Producer Charlotte Long. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Picture a serial killer in your mind’s eye. What do you see? More often than not it will be a man.</p><br><p>Statistically that’s accurate, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Whilst it’s perhaps not the most worthy feminist cause to jump behind, the issue of gendered narratives is a fascinating one - and what better way to look at it than through the lens of serial killers?</p><br><p>Kate is joined by Tori Telfer, author of <em>Lady Killers: Deadly Women Throughout History </em>to explore the story of one of America’s most notorious female serial killers: Nannie Doss, aka the Giggling Granny. She killed 11 people, four of which were husbands, leading to her also being known as the Lonely Hearts Killer, due to her supposed search for love.</p><br><p>Nannie Doss interview clip courtesy of Pea Hicks. View the full interview and more on their YouTube channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@peahix" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@peahix</a></p><br><p>Produced by Sophie Gee. Senior Producer Charlotte Long. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Queen Charlotte is back in the spotlight, thanks to the new Bridgerton spin-off series looking into her life and marriage to King George III.</p><br><p>We know Bridgerton uses a lot of creative license when it comes to historical accuracy (just in case you didn't know, people in the Regency period did not dance to orchestral covers of Beyonce) so today Kate thought she'd get Betwixt the Sheets with historian, Catherine Curzon to find out who the <em>real </em>Queen Charlotte was.</p><br><p>What was her early life like? How was her relationship like with her husband before and after his mental health problems? How did other members of high society view her?</p><br><p>You can find out more about Catherine Curzon's work <a href="https://www.madamegilflurt.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>WARNING: There is adult content and explicit words in this episode.</p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Stuart Beckwith. Mixed by Siobhan Dale</p><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It’s hard to imagine London’s gay scene before vibrant night spots like Heaven and G.A.Y, but come back with us to the 18th Century to find out about where it all began: Molly Houses. </p><br><p>This was when to be gay in England was a crime punishable by death, and so a network of secretive gay gatherings in the backrooms of ale and coffee houses - known in the community as Molly Houses - were the place to go and meet other gay men. </p><br><p>Where did this term come from? And what took place at great risk behind these closed doors? Kate is joined by the legendary gay historian and author Rictor Norton to find out. </p><br><p>Produced by Sophie Gee. Senior Producer Charlotte Long. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith. </p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Ancient Romans are often thought of as ahead of their time. They invented concrete, sophisticated road systems and even underfloor heating.</p><br><p>But their approach to murder is starkly different to how the modern world recognises it, and frankly it’s a bit weird. These people saw 26 emperors murdered in one 50-year period, and would watch people being killed for entertainment in the Colosseum.</p><br><p>Today Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with Emma Southon to talk murder in Ancient Rome.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Emma's book<a href="https://www.emmasouthon.com/a-fatal-thing-happened-on-the-way-to-the-forum" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u> here.</u></a></p><br><p>WARNING: There is adult content and explicit words in this episode.</p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In 1603, James VI & I became the first king of Scotland and England. But this isn’t the only reason he was remarkable. Because he also had a big, no HUGE, fear of witches.</p><br><p>He literally wrote a book on it in 1597. Daemonologie, which just scratched the surface of Scotland’s relationship with so-called witches.</p><br><p>Today, Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with Allyson Shaw to find out more about the witch trials of Scotland.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Allyson's book<a href="https://allysonshaw.com/ashes-and-stones/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> here.</a></p><br><p>WARNING: There is adult content and explicit words in this episode.</p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Siobhan Dale</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>What did Napoleon smell like? How many pairs of scented gloves did Marie Antoinette get through a month? And how did the study of perfume become the study of life itself in the 19th century?</p><br><p>Kate is joined by Theresa Levitt for this episode to find out about the world of the Parisian perfumiers Laugier and Laurent. Theresa is the author of <em>Elixir: A Parisian Perfume House and the Quest for the Secret of Life.</em></p><br><p>Produced by Sophie Gee. Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>From significantly sized cod-pieces to revenge dresses, the Royal family have used clothes to send a message to the public for centuries, and a coronation is one of the best opportunities to communicate what kind of king or queen you’re planning to be.</p><br><p>King Charles III's coronation will be at Westminster Abbey, a place where monarchs have been crowned since 1066 - everyone from Henry VIII to Victoria.</p><br><p>Today Kate is joined Betwixt the Sheets with Rosie Harte to talk coronations and royal fashion moments throughout history, including velvet robes and pubic hair wigs. Yes, you're reading that correctly.</p><br><p>WARNING: There is adult content and explicit words in this episode.</p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Incest. It’s not the<em> lightest </em>topic of conversation, we wouldn’t recommend bringing it up as an icebreaker on a date, or when you’re trying to impress new people at a party - but it’s one which has fascinated many of us for centuries nonetheless.</p><br><p>But has it always been taboo? How have the necessary degrees of separation between partners grown and shrunk over the years? And why were so many royal families keen<em> </em>on familial relations in the past...Hapsburg chin anyone?</p><br><p>Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with Brian Connolly to discuss the history of incest, an episode suggested to us by a listener. You can read more of Brian's work <a href="https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/hty_facpub/155/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a></p><br><p>WARNING: There is adult content and explicit words in this episode.</p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Siobhan Dale.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p><br><p>This podcast includes music from Epidemic Sounds.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>What made the decade between 1996 and 2006 a pop breeding ground? And what was this time like for the pop stars involved?</p><br><p>From the Spice Girls to Girls Aloud, and Take That to Blue, Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with journalist Michael Cragg to look at the success and scandals during the golden age of pop.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Michael Cragg's new book<a href="https://www.michaelcragg.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> here.</a></p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p><br><p>This podcast includes music from Epidemic Sounds.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, disgust, fear... we all know what these emotions feel like, right?</p><br><p>But <em>what </em>is emotion? Do we all feel the same things? And do we have the same feelings as people who lived five-hundred years ago?</p><br><p>Today Kate is joined Betwixt the Sheets by Richard Firth-Godbehere to find out about the origins of emotions, and what they have to do with witchcraft and desire.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Richard's work <a href="https://projects.history.qmul.ac.uk/emotions/richard-firth-godbehere/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>Senior producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Siobhan Dale.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p><br><p>This podcast includes music from Epidemic Sounds and an archive clip from Prelinger Archives.</p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>How common was it for a pirates to walk the plank? Was there a lot of rum? And were relationships allowed on ships?</p><br><p>Kate is joined by Rebecca Simon, author of 'The Pirate's Code' to find out about the codes that pirates had to live by.</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Joseph Knight.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here.</u></a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Why would a man embroil his own nephew in a sex scandal? What was it like for a Georgian man to have his affair with another man shared in the papers? And what options were available to them after this happened?</p><br><p>Today Betwixt the Sheets, Kate is finding out about the lives of William Courtenay and William Beckford, the sex scandal surrounding the two heirs and their different responses to it.</p><br><p>Kate is joined by Charlie Courtenay, 19th Earl of Devon, to talk about his relative William Courtenay, the 9th Earl. She is also joined by Dr Amy Frost from Beckford’s Tower in Bath. </p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Sophie Gee.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>If someone from the future looked inside your wardrobe, what could they find out about your life? That you like going out to parties? Maybe your work uniform is in there? Or perhaps there is still evidence of fashion trends of yore, like the oh-so-low rise jeans of the early noughties….</p><br><p>We can find out so much about people, culture and society through our clothes, and it’s the same for our ancestors.</p><br><p>Today Kate is joined by fashion historian Dr Kate Strasdin Betwixt the Sheets to delve into the wardrobe secrets of a real life Victorian woman, from deadly dyes, to an actual pirate flag.</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Joseph Knight.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here</u></a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts, and audiobooks at History Hit - <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>subscribe today</u></a>!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>‘Bond girl’ is quite a loaded term. Why aren’t they women? What makes them part of this homologous team? And what does it mean if they have red hair?</p><br><p>In this episode, Kate speaks to Dr Lisa Funnell, award winning author and expert on all things Bond. She is here to tell us about the different eras of Bond girls and why it’s so important to revisit our old favourites.</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Pete Dennis.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>REAL LIFE INVENTOR ALERT!!!</p><p>Two jockstraps cleverly sewn together. That was how the very first sports bra was made in 1977. The product built out from this prototype, the “Jog Bra”, went on to change women’s athletics forever.</p><br><p>Lisa Lindhal who, together with her friends Polly and Hinda, unleashed the sports bra on the world. In this episode from our sister podcast, <em>Patented: History of Inventions</em>, she spoke to Dallas Campbell . </p><br><p>The episode was produced by Freddy Chick. The editor was Anisha Deva. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>WARNING: This episode includes adult content and explicit language. As offensive terms go, you are entering a hard hat area.</p><br><p><strong>It’s one of the most taboo words in the English dictionary. In Scotland, it can be a term of endearment, but in the US it's one of the worst offences out there, and it would more than likely get you fired if you said it to your boss at work. It starts with c, and ends in t and we're not talking about a coconut.</strong></p><br><p>Kate is joined Betwixt the Sheets for our 100th episode by our favourite Kathy Burke and linguist legend Professor Deborah Cameron to talk about the etymology and cultural meaning of the c-word.</p><br><p>Why is a word that simply means the vulva regarded as the most offensive word in the English language? Where does the word come from? And were medieval people really calling their children the c-bomb?</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Charlotte Long. Producer: Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>here</u></a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts, and audiobooks at History Hit - <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>subscribe today</u></a>!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>What was the early modern version of CSI? Why might whole pubs have been singing an executed person’s final words? And was the crime of murder different back then?</p><br><p>In this episode, Kate spoke to Blessin Adams, a former member of the police who has been researching murders between the 16th and 18th centuries. Her book is called <em>Great and Horrible News: Murder and Mayhem in Early Modern Britain.</em></p><br><p>*Warning - this episode contains mentions of murder, torture, infanticide, suicide, miscarriage, abortion and some gruesome details*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Sophie Gee.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>You may have seen the news that archaeologists have been reassessing a phallic object from Vindolanda Roman Fort in the north of Britain.</p><br><p>How does the saying go ... "If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck." Do you think this counts for d*cks too?</p><br><p>Today, Kate is talking to Rob Collins to find out how we can prove what an ancient artefact was actually used for.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Joseph Knight</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>From the Chevalier de Saint-Georges to the Merry Monarch to Madame Jojo and Madame Trenti, the district of Soho in London has played host to many of the naughtiest names in history. And now, we can include Kate Lister on that list.</p><br><p>In this episode, join us for a walking tour of Soho with Katie Wignall from Look Up London. You can even follow along, just start off at the black and white hut on Soho Square: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1BQRD8E6Joc1xEniGomROdGSyKX6OLf0&usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1BQRD8E6Joc1xEniGomROdGSyKX6OLf0&usp=sharing</a></p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Anisha Deva.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>How debaucherous do you have to be to be remembered as the original <em>bad boy</em>? How mad, bad and dangerous to know was Lord Byron? And how much of it did he get from his family?</p><br><p>For this episode, Kate is joined by Emily Brand, the author of ‘The Fall of the House of Byron: Scandal and Seduction in Georgian England’. From incest to murder - this family must have made for a very awkward dinner party.</p><br><p><em>Poems by George Gordon Byron read by Matt Lewis: ‘So, We’ll Go No More A Roving’ and lines 1089 to 1096 of Don Juan, canto 2.</em></p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Sophie Gee.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Why is the naked body of a life model more respected than a glamour model? Why has there been a resurgence in virtue policing? And why was Kate completely naked during the interview with today’s guest?!</p><br><p>Today we’re casting off our clothes and slipping Betwixt the Sheets with academic, feminist, economist and naked protestor, Victoria Bateman.Hear about the cyclical nature of modesty culture in Ancient Egypt and Babylonia right up to now, and find out about society’s hypocritical attitudes towards women’s bodies.</p><br><p>You can find out more about Victoria’s book <a href="https://www.nakedfeminism.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>How would a medieval woman achieve a Brazilian bikini line? Why can’t you trust a nun in the night time? And what were women doing at Medieval universities? </p><br><p>Kate is joined for the THIRD time by Eleanor Janega to talk about how women were expected to be in the medieval era, and how they actually were. From biology to appearance to careers, it’s time to shed light on this half of the medieval population.</p><br><p>Eleanor has just released a new book, ‘The Once and Future Sex: Going Medieval on Women's Roles in Society’.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Sophie Gee.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters<a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>RuPaul. Lily Savage. Bianca Del Rio. Dame Edna Everage. These iconic drag queens are household names, but have you ever heard about Princess Seraphina? Or William Dorsey Swann, aka 'The Queen'?</p><br><p>Today we're bringing you a very special mash-up episode for Comic Relief, all about the history of Drag Queens. Kate is joined by Gossip Gays hosts Danny Beard (winner of RuPaul's Race UK) and DJ Billy Andrew.</p><br><p>Where did the term Drag Queen come from? What is a Molly House? And why could you expect to be served a stewed prune there? It wasn't to aid digestive health that's for sure...</p><br><p>Red Nose Day has always been a time to spread a bit of joy. We know there’s a lot going on right now and for many people things are really tough. But if you can donate, every penny will add up to a life-changing difference. Text PODCAST to 70205 to give £5 today. To donate £5 text the word PODCAST to 70205. Texts cost your donation amount plus your standard network message charge and 100% of your donation will go to Comic Relief, a registered charity. You must be 16 or over and please ask the bill-payer’s permission. For full terms and conditions visit<a href=" comicrelief.com/podcastmashup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> comicrelief.com/podcastmashup</a></p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long & Lucas Poole. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>From aristocratic rebels to Civil Rights activists, tens of thousands of people travelled to Spain during the Civil War - and not all of them were men...</p><br><p>Whether they were fighting, nursing or reporting, in this episode of Betwixt the Sheets we are going to meet a few of the women who chose to risk their lives.</p><br><p>Kate is joined by Sarah Watling, author of ‘Tomorrow Perhaps the Future’ to hear about Gerda Taro, Martha Gelhorn and more.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Anisha Deva.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Why might a woman have willingly confined herself to a cell for the rest of her life? Why have so many female authors in history published under aliases or initials? And what was Jane Austen’s dirtiest joke?</p><br><p>In this episode of Betwixt the Sheets, Kate is joined by Anna Beer to discuss an alternative history of English literature. What prevented women from publishing their work, and how did they get around this?</p><br><p>Produced by Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith. Senior producer: Charlotte Long.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>‘It’s my time of the month’, ‘the painters are in’, ‘aunt flo is visiting’, or a simple ‘I’m on the rag’</p><br><p>Periods are a fact of life for so many people. So how have they been understood? How have they been talked about and concealed? And why have periods stopped so many people from going swimming?</p><br><p>In this episode, Kate is joined by Elissa Stein, one of the authors of <em>FLOW: the Cultural Story of Menstruation </em>to find out how menstruation has been dealt with throughout history. This episode was requested by Betwixter Lisa. If you also have a request, please let us know at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Anisha Deva.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The first series of Bridgerton broke viewership records and became the biggest series on Netflix <em>ever</em> when it first came out. But a raunchy period drama is nothing new, shows with an eroticised view of the past have always been popular. Think Game of Thrones, The Tudors, Peaky Blinders...they’re all at it!</p><br><p>But can we even call Bridgerton history? How accurate is the series? From the fashion, to the sex, to the dental hygiene. Yep, we’re even going to be talking about dentures made from teeth taken from men who died at the Battle of Waterloo in this episode. Surprisingly the Bridgerton actors weren’t asked to rock a pair for filming the series.</p><br><p>Today Kate is Betwixt the Sheets with historian Catherine Curzon find out the real Regency history behind Bridgerton.</p><br><p>You can buy Catherine's book, Inside the World of Bridgerton: True Stories of Regency High Society <a href="https://www.mombooks.com/book/the-real-world-of-bridgerton/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Charlotte Long and Matt Peaty.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In the UK, just over half of people above the age of 16 are married. Whether in a registry office, a place of worship or a remote beach somewhere sunny, each of these couples will have had to do some form of planning. Guest lists, cake, flowers and, of course, outfits.</p><br><p>Today Betwixt the Sheets, Kate is speaking to Kimberly Chrisman-Campbell about wedding dresses. When might you have worn the same dress day to day? When did white become the norm in western countries? And what is a decoy bride?</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Joseph Knight. </p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Clear soup, Irish stew and steamed puddings - this was the war work of Georgina Landemare, the Churchills’ longest-serving cook.</p><br><p>Throughout the war years, Georgina served the Prime Minister, delegations of diplomats and the occasional royal, as well as the other staff of 10 Downing Street, Chequers and the War Rooms.</p><br><p>Annie Gray is back with Kate today to introduce us to Georgina; why she went into the service industry, where she learnt to cook the French way, and how she managed to make the most of wartime rations (with a few top-ups here and there).</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Why are women over the age of 50 so often cast as terrifying, decaying, manipulative people in Hollywood? When did this start? And how might it have been a reaction to second wave feminism?</p><br><p>In this episode, Kate is joined by Caroline Young to talk about the birth of Hagsploitation, or Hag Horror, and what it has meant for the women involved.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Anisha Deva.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>She was a woman of unparalleled power, descended from Julius Caesar and Augustus. But how did she get there, whilst most of the rest of her family were exiled and starved to death? And how, then, did she come to be murdered by her own son, Nero?</p><br><p>Today Kate is joined by Emma Southon for an introduction to this very powerful hustler, and to find out why she is so often remembered as a seductress.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Anisha Deva.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Why might a medieval nun drink the pus of an ill patient? Where does ‘fishy Friday’ come from? And what does all of this have to do with religion?</p><br><p>Today, Kate is joined between some Reformation sheets by Eleanor Barnett, from instagram's @historyeats. They talk about how religion, and in particular the switch from Catholicism to Protestantism in England, influenced eating habits.We will also find out how eating habits from this period can be compared with those of today.</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Stuart Beckwith. Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>If you have an idea or comment for the show, we welcome you to get in touch at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>.</p><br><p>Sign up to History Hit with the code HISTORYEATS to get half price for the first three months.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Can you imagine being SO smooth-talking and seductive your surname becomes an actual noun in the dictionary to describe someone who has a reputation for being an expert at in the sack?</p><br><p>Well today we’re going to be talking about a man who was just that…Giacamo Casanova.</p><br><p>But is his legacy accurate? Was he<em> really</em> a prolific ladies man? And did he do anything else in his life other than seduce women…and if he did, why do we only remember him for that reason? </p><br><p>Today we’re bringing you a very special Betwixt the Sheets mash-up episode with History Hit’s very own Casanova, Dan Snow (don’t worry he has humbly confirmed we could call him that).</p><br><p>Kate and Dan will be discussing why there is much more to Casanova than just womanising - he was a scam artist, outlaw, alchemist, spy and church cleric. He wrote satires, fought duels, and escaped from prison more than once. He even set up the French national lottery. Join Kate and Dan for this special collab episode of History Hit in the Sheets to find out all this and more!</p><br><p>Produced by Freddy Chick, Charlotte Long and Mariana Des Forges. Mixed by Dougal Patmore.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>Email us with your subject ideas at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Why would someone disown their son over a pair of glasses? How could an unmarried woman in 1918 have published a book about sexual pleasure? And what is an appropriate gift for a newlywed prince and princess? </p><br><p>Today, we’re looking at the complicated woman who was Marie Stopes - family planning pioneer on one hand, very problematic eugenicist on the other.</p><br><p>Kate is joined once again by Deborah Cohen to explore Stopes’ life and influence.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are discussions of eugenics, adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Sophie Gee.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>Email us with your subject ideas at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Facelifts, liposuction and nose jobs: since the mid 20th century people have saved up to have their faces and bodies transformed into their dreams.</p><br><p>But why might these procedures have been offered in prisons across the US, the UK and Canada? And what was the desired outcome?</p><br><p>Today, Kate is joined by Zara Stone, author of <em>Killer Looks: The Forgotten History of Plastic Surgery in Prisons</em> to discuss re-conviction rates, ‘pretty privilege’ and the so called ‘hot felon’.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are discussions of race, adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Thomas Ntinas.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>Email us with your subject ideas at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">[email protected]</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>She is surely one of the most fascinating figures in royal history. Perceived as a bad match for Edward VIII, Wallis Simpson is at the centre of the scandal surrounding his abdication.</p><br><p>But what do we know about her life besides this? From childhood to exile - Anne Sebba introduces us to the Duchess of Windsor.</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Joseph Knight.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>From Ancient Assyria to the Byzantine Empire, from the Qing dynasty’s Forbidden City to 19th century operas; Eunuchs have been present across a huge range of the world’s history. Despite this, they are often mainly thought of in terms of their private parts.</p><br><p>So today, Betwixt the Sheets, Kate is joined by Shaun Tougher from Cardiff University to find out what the lives of Eunuchs were like, particularly in the Byzantine Empire. Why would people, or often their parents, make this choice? And how were they perceived in their societies?</p><br><p>*WARNING there are adult words and themes in this episode*</p><br><p>Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Sophie Gee.</p><br><p>Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.</p><br><p>For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>