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Handmaids of the Gods

Episode 2 of 3

Series uncovering the hidden history of women in religion. Revealing the lost era of the priestess, from ancient Greece to the early years of Christianity.

Historian Bettany Hughes continues her journey into the hidden and controversial history of women's place in religion as she uncovers the lost era of the priestess. She delves into the ancient Greek worship of the goddess of sex, Aphrodite, and finds out what this practice meant for women.

She also heads to ancient Rome, where the fate of the civilisation lay in the hands of six sacred virgins. Returning to the crucial early years of Christianity, she finds evidence that overturns centuries of Church teaching and challenges the belief that women should not be priests.

1 hour

Last on

Tue 5 Jun 2012 01:45

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Bettany Hughes
Producer Emily Davis
Director Emily Davis
Executive Producer Leonie Jameson

Broadcasts