A quick correction for what was said about Elagabalus: So although the wiki pointed out that the question of Elagabalus's sexual orientation and gender identity came from salacious and unreliable sources.
Writings from Cassius Dio, who would refer to Elagabalus as a woman. This being an insult as Dio didn't think highly of Elagabalus because of his foreign customs, effeminacy and cruelty. He even tells a story of how Elagabalus would regularly prostitute himself in taverns and brothels, during which time he would wear a wig and make up.
I find it interesting that it was this emperor that Rainbow Lysenkoism decided to make their roman era poster child... He's not unlike many modern members of the trans community so... I guess it fits.
A quick correction for what was said about Elagabalus:
So although the wiki pointed out that the question of Elagabalus's sexual orientation and gender identity came from salacious and unreliable sources.
Writings from Cassius Dio, who would refer to Elagabalus as a woman. This being an insult as Dio didn't think highly of Elagabalus because of his foreign customs, effeminacy and cruelty. He even tells a story of how Elagabalus would regularly prostitute himself in taverns and brothels, during which time he would wear a wig and make up.
I find it interesting that it was this emperor that Rainbow Lysenkoism decided to make their roman era poster child... He's not unlike many modern members of the trans community so... I guess it fits.
Now with that taken care of.