#146 Jesters (Part 1)

#146 Jesters (Part 1)

Author: Pop! Pop! November 3, 2025 Duration: 47:47

This week we’re going back in time to look at that most curious of careers: jesters! We’ve got the earliest professional farters, we’ve got Harlequins and we’ll see what jesters were up to in Ancient Rome.


Plus we have a quick bit on the history of the mattress. And if you’ve got anything else to contribute, you know what to do: hello@ohwhatatime.com


And in huge news, Oh What A Time is now on Patreon! From content you’ve never heard before to the incredible Oh What A Time chat group, there’s so much more OWAT to be enjoyed!


On our Patreon you’ll now find:

•The full archive of bonus episodes

•Brand new bonus episodes each month

•OWAT subscriber group chats

•Loads of extra perks for supporters of the show

•PLUS ad-free episodes earlier than everyone else


Join us at 👉 patreon.com/ohwhatatime


And as a special thank you for joining, use the code CUSTARD for 25% off your first month.


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Thank you to Dan Evans for the artwork (idrawforfood.co.uk).


Chris, Elis and Tom x


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Ever wondered if people in the 18th century had worse holidays than you do, or if being a child in Victorian times was genuinely as grim as it sounds? That’s the kind of territory explored in Oh What A Time..., a podcast where history is less about dusty dates and more about the bizarre, often terrible, human experiences across the ages. Each episode, comedians Elis James and Tom Craine join award-winning podcaster Chris Scull to take a deep, funny dive into a new theme-whether it’s marriage, life at sea, or countless other facets of existence. They sift through the strangest and most surprising stories from our collective past, all while trying to settle a central, burning query: just how awful was it back then? The tone is conversational and packed with curiosity, blending genuine historical insight with the hosts’ comedic perspectives. You’ll find yourself learning about the peculiar realities of daily life in different eras, all delivered with a warmth and humor that makes the past feel immediately relevant. This isn’t a lecture; it’s a lively discussion between friends who are equally fascinated and horrified by what they uncover. For anyone who enjoys a good story, a laugh, and a fresh take on the people who came before us, this podcast offers a consistently entertaining and oddly comforting look at the shared struggles and absurdities of human history.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Oh What A Time...
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