Definitions of what can and cannot be described as sexual violence vary widely across time and place. In 48 countries around the world today, for example, men cannot be prosecuted for sexually assaulting their wives.

So what can a global history, comparing the differing interpretations of victims, survivors and perpetrators from different societies, tell us about sexual violence? And how might it help us to move forward towards a violence free world?

In this episode, Kate is joined by Joanna Bourke, author of ‘Disgrace: Global Reflections on Sexual Violence’ and professor at Birkbeck University to answer these questions.

*WARNING this episode contains discussions of sexual violence*

Produced by Charlotte Long and Sophie Gee. Mixed by Thomas Ntinas.

Betwixt the Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society. A podcast by History Hit.

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