Medieval Sex Work & Brothels

2026-08-04

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**WARNING: This episode contains explicit language and sexual content How did prostitution become so visible in medieval towns? How could sex work flourish, sometimes in the very same buildings as schools, churches and markets?Prostitutes were a familiar presence in medieval cities, raising fascinating questions about morality, religion, law and urban life.Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Kate Lister, host of our sister podcast Betwixt the Sheets, to uncover a surprising world where ideals and reality often sat u...

**WARNING: This episode contains explicit language and sexual content

How did prostitution become so visible in medieval towns? How could sex work flourish, sometimes in the very same buildings as schools, churches and markets?

Prostitutes were a familiar presence in medieval cities, raising fascinating questions about morality, religion, law and urban life.

Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Kate Lister, host of our sister podcast Betwixt the Sheets, to uncover a surprising world where ideals and reality often sat uneasily side by side.

Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Audio editors are Ella Blaxhill and Amy Haddow, the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.

All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.

Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.

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