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Welcome back to Let's Be Perfectly Queer Podcast, your go to LGBT Australian podcast for all things queer.
This week, we’re diving into one of the biggest literary debates of all time: was William Shakespeare gay… or at least queer?
From secret lovers to “queer-coded” sonnets, we unpack the theory that Shakespeare may have had romantic or sexual relationships with men, particularly the mysterious “Fair Youth” featured in 126 of his sonnets.
We explore:
- The Fair Youth and who he might have been
- Shakespeare’s sonnets and their surprisingly queer themes
- The dramatic portrait theory (involving vandalism and possible heartbreak)
- Queer themes in plays like Twelfth Night and The Merchant of Venice
- Why we can’t label historical figures the way we do today
We also touch on:
Are we uncovering hidden queer history or projecting modern identities onto the past?
Because while we may never know Shakespeare’s sexuality for sure, one thing is clear: his work is filled with passion, desire, gender fluidity, and relationships that don’t fit neatly into boxes.
Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan, a queer history nerd, or just here for the drama, this episode is packed with fascinating insights, chaotic theories, and a little bit of queer speculation.
🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself, did Shakespeare have a secret gay lover?... and until next time, stay perfectly queer!
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A big heartfelt thank you from us for all your support! It means the world to us.
Much love
Archie & Katie 🌈
