Scrubbing the Past: Medieval Cleanliness Exposed with Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse

History Rage

Welcome to another sizzling episode of History Rage, the podcast where historians let off steam and dismantle myths and misconceptions. Today, we plunge into the world of medieval hygiene with our guest, historian, and author of "Fake History: 101 Things That Never Happened," Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse. Jo joins us to rage against the stubborn myth that medieval Europeans were a dirty, unwashed lot. Prepare to have your perceptions of the Middle Ages turned on their head!

Debunking the Dirty Middle Ages:

- Jo takes on the persistent myth that medieval Europeans didn't bathe, revealing the truth about their hygiene practices and the importance they placed on cleanliness.

Bathhouses and Daily Washing:

- Discover the role of bathhouses in medieval communities and how daily washing was a common practice, even among the working class.

The Evolution of Cleanliness:

- Learn how perceptions of hygiene evolved over the centuries and the impact of medical and scientific understanding on these practices.

Soap and Detergents:

- Explore the various types of soap used in the medieval period and how they were made, debunking the notion that soap was a luxury item.

Victorian Influence:

- Understand how Victorian attitudes and misconceptions have shaped our modern view of medieval hygiene and why it's time to set the record straight.

Join us as Jo passionately argues that medieval people were far more concerned with cleanliness than we've been led to believe. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in uncovering the realities of medieval life and challenging long-held historical myths.

For more insights, check out Jo's book, "Fake History: 101 Things That Never Happened," and follow her on Twitter at @fakehistoryhunt

You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.

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