Margaret Cavendish was extraordinary for any time, let alone the 17th century.
She was a trailblazer in fiction, writing and publishing what many believe to be the first science fiction book - her 1666 work 'Blazing World' imagined a planet led by an Empress.
The story also featured a lesbian affair between the Empress and herself, Margaret Cavendish. Truly, fantastic.
She played a provocative and starring role amongst London's elite, and Samuel Pepys was obsessed with meeting her.
How did he describe her? Why was she the talk of the town in 17th century London? Joining Kate today is Francesca Peacock, author of Pure Wit: The Revolutionary Life of Margaret Cavendish.
This episode was edited by Teän Stewart-Murray, the producer was Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.
Don’t miss out on the best offer in history! Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts.
Get a subscription for £1 for 3 months with code BETWIXTTHESHEETS1 sign up now for your 14-day free trial https://historyhit/subscription/
The Real Outlander
Alexander The Great Sex's Life
Swearing: A F**king Long History
The Ancient Origins Of Sex
Napoleon's Penis & Other Iconic Body Parts From History
The Slave Revolt That Created A Country
The Book That Changed Sex Forever
The Festive Fetish: Santaphilia
King Arthur's Sex Life
JFK Special 5. | The Kennedy Curse
The Invention of Heterosexuality
JFK Special 4. | How Jackie O Defined An Era
AIDS Epidemic: Life & Death On The Frontline
JFK Special 3. | The Sex Life of JFK
Section 28: The Anti-Gay Law That Sparked A Movement
Napoleon's Sex Life
Ancient Goddesses of Sex and War
JFK Special 2. | The Kennedy Sister They Tried To Hide
Love, Lust & Fighting in World War II
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Gone Medieval
After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal
Not Just the Tudors
Dan Snow’s History Hit
History Extra podcast