Is Rasputin's Willy in a Jar?
Summary
Historian Douglas Smith joins Kate Lister to debunk myths surrounding Rasputin, revealing him as a complex peasant mystic rather than a villain. They explore his rise from Siberian pilgrim to the Romanovs' confidant, analyzing his genuine ability to read people and his role in managing the Tsarevich’s hemophilia. The discussion clarifies that rumors of sexual affairs with the Empress were political fabrications designed to discredit the monarchy. Smith also addresses Rasputin’s controversial behavior, including his heavy drinking and inappropriate conduct, while contextualizing the intense …
Topics discussed
Intro, sponsor reads, and show welcome
Introducing Rasputin and guest Douglas Smith
Early life, peasant origins, and rebellious nature
Rasputin as a scapegoat for the Romanov downfall
The Romanovs' attraction to mystics like Monsieur Philippe
Marriage, class divide, and elite fascination
Archival research, letters, and personal artifacts
Life as a wandering mystic (strannik)
Preaching style, charisma, and the piercing gaze
Celebrity status, media, and the 'goat smell' myth
Sponsor break: Ruler and Citizens Bank
Announcement of the show's YouTube channel
Sexual reputation, teachings on sin, and public behavior
Relationship with the Tsar and Empress; rumors of affairs
Alexei's hemophilia and Rasputin's role in his care
Sponsor break: After Dark podcast
Becoming a public enemy and the rise of myths
Early assassination attempts, including the noseless woman
The 1916 plot by Prince Yusupov and the murder
Debunking myths about Rasputin's physical attributes
Outro, guest resources, and final sponsor
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