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

Sex and Scandal on the Titanic

Aug 25, 2026 · 1h 0m

Summary

Dr. Kate Lister and historian Gareth Russell debunk Titanic myths, analyzing how gender and class influenced survival rates more than the "women and children first" rule. They discuss the tragedy's slow sinking, the controversy surrounding Bruce Ismay’s survival, and the myth of locked gates, revealing the complex social dynamics and human errors behind the disaster.

Topics discussed

Intro: Vote for us in the British Podcast Awards Sponsors: Experian Boost and Aerie Introduction: Titanic scandals and guest Gareth Gareth's personal connection and Titanic hyper-focus Why we are obsessed with the Titanic Survival statistics: Gender, class, and marriage The 'Women and Children First' rule and its consequences The sinking process, lifeboats, and timing Captain Smith's decisions and speed protocols Critique of Captain Smith and Thomas Andrews' actions Myths about third-class passengers and locked gates Sponsors: Ethos, Upwork, Mod, and Aerie Evacuation chaos and first-class passenger confusion Bruce Ismay: The coward of the Titanic and Nazi propaganda Sex and scandal: Real-life Jack and Rose stories Sponsors: Walden University and Mod Queer history on the Titanic: Affairs and relationships The Californian, iceberg myths, and conclusion Outro and final sponsor message
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