The Victorians had a lot of twisted fascinations, but their fixation on Ancient Egypt might be the darkest of the lot.
From 'mummy unwrapping parties' (yes, really), to gothic stories of romances with mummified bodies and beetles that came to life.
Was this a desire to connect with the past? Something darker? Or maybe both.
Joining Anthony and Maddy today is historian and author Dr Jay Sullivan, to help us uncover the truth.
This episode was edited by Tim Arstall. Produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Freddy Chick.
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After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal is a History Hit podcast.
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