Why History Is Much More Gay Than You Think with Harry Tanner

A Gay and a Non Gay

Wednesday, 6 August 2025 - 44 minutes

We're diving in deep with historian and author Harry Tanner on this week's episode of A Gay And A NonGay!

As a teenager, Harry was an evangelical Christian and came to believe homosexuality was a sin. Now, he lives a fulfilled gay life in London where he writes and teaches ancient languages and history.

In his new book - The Queer Thing About Sin - Harry explores how the West invented and weaponised homophobia — tracing its origins from ancient Greece and Rome through to today’s culture wars.

uncover stories of queer love in history, from porn pots in ancient Greece to heartfelt letters between men in 18th‑century Boston. They discuss why queer rights have risen and fallen throughout history and the deep ties between religion, politics and sexuality.

Plus, don't miss a surprising detour into ancient condoms!

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