Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Episode: Nell Gwyn: Celebrity Mistress of King Charles II Release Date: April 15, 2025
Hosts:
- Kate Lister: Sex historian and host of Betwixt the Sheets.
- Dr. David Taylor: Associate Professor of English at Oxford University.
Introduction to Nell Gwyn and Restoration Theatre
[02:43] Kate Lister:
Kate opens the episode with enthusiasm, highlighting the significance of Nell Gwyn in Restoration Theatre and her unique position as one of King Charles II’s most famous mistresses. She sets the stage for a deep dive into Nell’s journey from humble beginnings to royal notoriety.
[05:03] Kate Lister:
Kate emphasizes Nell Gwyn’s charismatic and talented nature, stating, “Nell Gwyn, or Mama as I like to call her, was charismatic, hilarious, super smart and talented as hell.” She poses critical questions about Nell's social ascent and her pioneering role in comedy acting.
Nell Gwyn’s Early Life and Rise to Fame
[07:04] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor provides historical context, explaining that Nell Gwyn became a prominent figure during the reign of King Charles II, who reigned from 1660 to 1685. He notes the tumultuous period of the English Civil War and the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, which set the backdrop for Nell’s rise.
[09:08] Kate Lister:
Kate describes Nell as the quintessential rags-to-riches story, highlighting her working-class origins and the social obstacles she overcame to gain prominence.
[12:02] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor delves into Nell’s murky early life, admitting, “The information we have is not necessarily especially reliable, and it's also conflicting.” He discusses various accounts of her birthplace and upbringing, including the possibility that she was raised in a brothel, serving liquor to guests.
Pioneering Restoration Actress
[16:49] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor explains that Nell was among the first women to perform on the English stage, a significant shift from previous practices where female roles were played by men. He states, “Nell was among that group” of pioneering actresses following the reopening of theatres after the Restoration.
[17:43] Dr. David Taylor:
He highlights the dual perception of actresses at the time—admired as novelties and celebrated performers by some, yet reviled and equated with prostitution by others. An example includes Rebecca Marshall’s confrontation with a heckler, leading to her assault with excrement, illustrating the hostility actresses faced.
[19:19] Kate Lister:
Kate reinforces this duality by comparing historical attitudes toward actresses with modern perceptions of sex workers, noting the “dual side of revulsion and also attraction.”
Nell Gwyn’s Relationship with King Charles II
[24:43] Kate Lister:
Kate inquires about Nell’s transition from a struggling actress to the King’s mistress, questioning how she secured such a prominent position.
[25:10] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor explains that Nell began her career selling oranges to theatre audiences before securing acting roles by her early teens. By 1665, she was acting on stage and gained significant attention following the Great Plague and subsequent reopening of theatres in 1666.
[26:03] Kate Lister:
Kate connects Nell’s breakthrough to her success in Restoration comedies, particularly her role in John Dryden’s Secret Love for Her, which showcased her wit and independence.
[31:51] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor outlines Nell’s official recognition as the King’s mistress by 1669, including her acknowledgment and provision by the King. He notes that Nell was strategically promoted by political figures like the Duke of Buckingham to counterbalance other influential mistresses.
[34:06] Kate Lister:
Kate explores the stability Nell enjoyed as the King’s mistress, questioning whether mistresses could maintain their status post the King’s reign.
[34:51] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor provides reassurance, stating that Nell was well-provisioned with pensions and property, which continued under King James II. This financial security helped her maintain her status even after Charles II’s death in 1685.
Nell Gwyn’s Social and Political Environment
[37:10] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor discusses the complex political landscape, including King Charles II’s secret treaty with Louis XIV and the religious tensions of the time. He elaborates on how Nell, being Protestant and English, was more politically palatable compared to other mistresses like the French Catholic Duchess of Portsmouth.
[39:45] Kate Lister:
Kate admires Nell’s ability to navigate the competitive and often toxic environment among the King’s mistresses, citing her interactions with Barbara Villiers as evidence of her diplomatic prowess.
[40:02] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor concurs, noting that Nell was less politically ambitious than other mistresses, which likely contributed to her sustained favor with the King. He contrasts her with other more politically active mistresses who wielded significant influence.
Nell Gwyn’s Legacy and Impact
[45:26] Kate Lister:
Kate questions the glorification of Nell’s story, acknowledging the hardships and abuses she endured while recognizing the power and agency she exhibited.
[45:50] Dr. David Taylor:
Dr. Taylor emphasizes Nell’s seizing of opportunities: “She seized every opportunity given to her.” He lauds her as a pioneer in theatre and comedy, arguing that she significantly influenced the representation of women in Restoration comedy.
[46:52] Kate Lister:
Kate adds that Nell could be considered one of the first female comedians, highlighting her role in shaping comedic roles for women.
[47:22] Kate Lister:
Kate reflects on Nel’s ability to maintain her status and legacy, despite the societal constraints and personal challenges she faced.
Conclusion and Final Reflections
[47:57] Kate Lister:
Kate wraps up the discussion by summarizing Nell’s achievements and encouraging listeners to explore further through the upcoming documentary series on History Hit.
[45:56] Kate Lister:
In her final thoughts, Kate underscores Nell’s enduring legacy as both a royal mistress and a trailblazing actress, celebrating her as a multifaceted figure who navigated and influenced the social and political spheres of her time.
Notable Quotes:
-
Dr. David Taylor [09:44]:
“She was such a personality. This is a woman who really embodies the kind of rags to riches story that we all love.” -
Kate Lister [15:48]:
“It's a really effective psychological tactic. That is you take the thing that people are trying to shame you for and you absolutely inhabit it and use it against them.” -
Dr. David Taylor [45:55]:
“I think what you can say about Nell is that she seized every opportunity given to her.”
Key Takeaways:
-
Pioneering Actress:
Nell Gwyn was among the first women to perform on the English stage, breaking significant gender barriers in Restoration Theatre. -
Rags to Riches:
From potentially being born in a brothel to becoming a celebrated actress and royal mistress, Nell’s ascent is a testament to her charisma and opportunism. -
Relationship with Charles II:
Nell maintained a long-term relationship with King Charles II, securing financial stability and social status through her position as his mistress. -
Social and Political Navigation:
Nell adeptly navigated the intricate social and political landscape of the Restoration period, maintaining favor without the overt political ambition of some of her contemporaries. -
Legacy as a Pioneer:
Beyond her role as a royal mistress, Nell Gwyn is celebrated for her contributions to theatre and comedy, influencing the portrayal of women in the performing arts. -
Enduring Recognition:
Despite societal prejudices and personal challenges, Nell secured a lasting legacy through her talents, relationships, and philanthropic efforts.
Conclusion:
Nell Gwyn's life exemplifies the complexities of female agency and resilience in a patriarchal and class-stratified society. Her contributions to theatre and her influential role as King Charles II’s mistress highlight her as a multifaceted figure who leveraged her talents and relationships to navigate and shape her social environment. Dr. David Taylor’s insights underscore Nell’s pivotal role in both the cultural and political spheres of her time, cementing her legacy as a pioneering and enduring historical figure.