For Women in Ancient Rome, Underwear Was Hardly Sexy

Forget about those images of Roman women in underclothing that have been popularized by productions like Spartacus, Caligula and Erotic Nights of Poppea. Back then, feminine intimate apparel was hardly sexy, comprised of little beyond highly practical garments. So explains the studious Emma Southon, doctor of ancient history at Birmingham University, during an animated conversation that takes place in Barcelona.