Messalina: Empress of Rome

In this episode of The Ancients, host Tristan Hughes speaks with historian Honor Cargill-Martin about the notorious Empress Messalina, third wife of Emperor Claudius. A lot has been said about Messalina over two millennia: that she was a nymphomaniac who organised orgies and engaged in prostitution, even going so far as to work as a prostitute in the streets of Rome, or had sex with 25 men in 24 hours, are just a few examples. Cargill-Martin sheds light on the political and social climate of ancient Rome during Messalina's reign and how she was a complex figure who deserves a more nuanced understanding.Produced by Elena Guthrie, edited by Aidan Longergan.For more History Hit content, subscribe to our newsletters here. If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts, and audiobooks at History Hit - subscribe today!