In this bonus episode, we dive groin-first into the legend of Pope Joan—a woman who allegedly infiltrated the papacy, gave birth mid-procession, and inspired a ritual to fondle future Popes. We explore 9th-century politics, religion, and misogyny with our trademark blend of sarcasm and skepticism. Spoiler: she probably didn’t exist, but damn, the story slaps.
- Was Pope Joan real, or just medieval satire gone viral?
- The political chaos and mythmaking of the 9th century
- How women were both feared and revered in religious roles
- The infamous "Holy Throne" and its testicular inspection ritual
- Why this myth survived for centuries and who benefited from it
Quotes:
- “She allegedly gave birth right there in the street—while the Roman crowd looked on in shock. The horse didn’t stop.”
- “Duos habet et bene pendentes—he has two, and they hang well. And yes, that was the test.”
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