Exploring LGBTQ+ Figures in History: A Conversation with Historian Mock O'Keefe

History is often told through the lens of dominant narratives, sometimes leaving out the diverse and rich experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. In a recent episode of the History in 20 podcast, host sat down with Mock O'Keefe—known as "The Gay Aristo" on social media—to shed light on five key LGBTQ+ figures throughout history. Living in an Elizabethan manor in Wales, Mock brings a unique perspective to historical storytelling, combining academic rigor with a passion for inclusivity.

Edward II: A King Marked by Love and Controversy

Edward II is one of the most scrutinized monarchs in English history, largely due to his relationships with men, especially his favorite Piers Gaveston. Mock highlights Edward II's deep emotional bond with Piers, describing it as a brotherhood of love that influenced the King's reign significantly. However, Edward’s favoritism and the perception of having a "second king" in Piers caused unrest among the nobility, resulting in Piers’s violent death.

Following Piers, Edward II’s relationship with Hugh Despenser was toxic and politically damaging, contributing to his downfall. The Queen’s strategic move to ally with French forces led to Edward’s capture and eventual mysterious death, rumored to be linked to homophobic sentiments. Mock's empathetic take on Edward II’s life connects his personal struggles with broader themes of rejection and political intrigue.

James I: The First King of England and His Intimate Court

James I of England, also James VI of Scotland, is another monarch whose close relationships with men have been the subject of historical debate. Mock discusses James’s affection for George Villiers, the Duke of Buckingham, with whom he shared a deeply affectionate and intimate correspondence, referring to each other as "husband" and "wife." Though the exact nature of their relationship remains speculative, the closeness was extraordinary for the time.

James’s reign was marked by political challenges and a rough public persona, but his private life reveals the complexities of court life and the hidden histories of LGBTQ+ figures. Mock emphasizes the importance of questioning historical narratives that have traditionally erased or downplayed such relationships.

Sarah and Eleanor: A Quiet Love in 17th Century Ireland and Wales

Shifting focus from royalty to aristocracy, Mock shares the story of Sarah and Eleanor, two Irish aristocrats whose lifelong partnership defied social conventions. Their families initially opposed their relationship, but eventually, the women were allowed to leave Ireland and settle in Wales, where they lived together peacefully for many years.

Celebrated in their community and visited by notable figures, Sarah and Eleanor's story exemplifies a committed, quiet love that challenges assumptions about LGBTQ+ history being solely about scandal or court intrigue.

Horace Walpole: The Aesthetic Visionary and Gothic Novelist

Horace Walpole, son of Britain’s first Prime Minister, was an effeminate man in a masculine world, known for his literary genius and flamboyant personality. Mock highlights Walpole’s circle of male companions and his creation of Strawberry Hill, a Gothic fantasy estate that became a symbol of his unique style.

Despite being outed and facing societal scorn, Walpole’s legacy endures through his pioneering contributions to Gothic literature, including The Castle of Otranto. His life illustrates the intersection of sexual identity, artistic expression, and social rebellion in the 18th century.

Oscar Wilde: The Iconic Literary Figure with a Complex Legacy

No discussion of LGBTQ+ history would be complete without Oscar Wilde, arguably the most famous homosexual figure in history. Wilde’s wit, literary talent, and flamboyant lifestyle made him a celebrity, but his open relationships with men led to his downfall during a time of harsh legal persecution.

Mock provides a balanced view of Wilde, acknowledging both his championing of homosexual love and the darker aspects of his life, including his problematic relationships with underage boys. Wilde’s story is a reminder of the complexities of historical figures and the importance of honest, nuanced portrayals.

The Importance of Inclusive and Honest History

Throughout the conversation, Mock stresses the need to recognize LGBTQ+ figures in history without sanitizing their lives or overlooking their flaws. Many of these individuals, including monarchs like James I, were involved in political and social injustices, which must be acknowledged alongside their sexual identities.

Mock also encourages everyone to preserve their own histories—letters, certificates, and everyday documents—as they form the personal archives that future historians will rely on to build a more inclusive understanding of the past.

Final Thoughts

This enlightening discussion with Mock O'Keefe challenges us to rethink historical narratives and embrace the rich diversity of human experience. By uncovering the stories of LGBTQ+ figures from Edward II to Oscar Wilde, we gain a fuller, more honest picture of history—one that includes love, struggle, creativity, and sometimes contradiction.

For those interested in diving deeper, Mock’s social media channels and YouTube content offer further explorations of LGBTQ+ history, including tours of historic sites like Strawberry Hill and discussions about the lives of lesser-known figures.

Explore more:

• Follow Mock O’Keefe on Instagram @thegayaristo
• Watch the YouTube series on LGBTQ+ history and historic estates
• Visit Strawberry Hill House in London for an immersive Gothic experience

History belongs to everyone, and by embracing all its facets, we ensure a richer, more inclusive future.