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cover of episode The Murder That Shook Edwardian Britain

The Murder That Shook Edwardian Britain

2025/3/25
logo of podcast Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
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The story of Belle Elmore's murder by Dr. Crippen became a media sensation in Edwardian Britain, captivating the public with its elements of scandal and mystery. Historian Hallie Rubenhold sheds light on the overlooked perspectives of women involved in this infamous case.
  • Belle Elmore, a music hall dancer, disappeared in January 1910, prompting concern from her colleagues.
  • Dr. Crippen, Belle's husband, was at the center of the media frenzy surrounding the case.
  • Historian Hallie Rubenhold provides a feminist perspective on the story, highlighting the important role played by Belle's friends in the investigation.

Shownotes Transcript

When the music hall dancer, Belle Ellmore, disappeared in January 1910, it was her performing colleagues who raised the alarm.

Her murder by Dr. Crippen became a media sensation, and he became the star of the story.

Why was Belle Ellmore murdered? Why did it cause such a sensation at its time? And what role did her friends and colleagues in the music hall industry play in bringing justice?

Joining Kate today is historian and author, Hallie Rubenhold, whose feminist lens on this story, in Story of a Murder), is long overdue.

This episode is edited by Tom Delargy and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer is Charlotte Long.

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All music from Epidemic Sounds.

Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.