In a groundbreaking move, the North Hertfordshire Museum in the UK has announced that it will be referring to the ancient Roman emperor Elagabalus as "she" in its displays. This decision comes after recent research revealed that Elagabalus identified as transgender, sparking an academic debate about the ruler's gender identity.

Elagabalus, who reigned from 218 to 222 AD, has long been a subject of controversy and speculation among historians. However, based on classical texts where the emperor requested to be addressed as "lady" and preferred feminine pronouns, the museum will now use these new set of pronouns to accurately reflect Elagabalus's gender identity.

Keith Hoskins, the executive member for Enterprise and Arts at North Herts Council, stated that the museum aims to be respectful and sensitive in how they refer to historical figures, just as they would with individuals in the present. Explaining the reasoning behind the decision, Hoskins highlighted that inaccurate translations in the past had referred to Elagabalus as 'they' due to the lack of gender distinction in classical Greek language. However, evidence, including Dio's text, indicates that Elagabalus explicitly preferred the 'she' pronoun.

The North Hertfordshire Museum's coin collection includes one silver denarius minted during Elagabalus's reign. This coin, along with other LGBTQ+ items in the museum's collection, is occasionally put on display. With the recognition of Elagabalus as transgender, the museum aims to provide historical accuracy and representation.

The museum's website released a statement affirming the existence of transgender identities in history. It referenced Elagabalus as an example, noting that the emperor was born male but identified as a woman during their teenage years, even attempting to find a doctor who could perform sex reassignment surgery.

Elagabalus's controversial reign extends beyond their gender identity. The emperor was known to have married a man named Hierocles, a charioteer and former slave, and was referred to as Hierocles' wife or mistress. Elagabalus also embraced feminine presentation, frequently wearing wigs and makeup. They even offered significant amounts of money to any physician who could provide them with a vagina, according to an interview published on the University of Birmingham's website.

Last month, the University of Leicester's Research Centre for Museums and Galleries published new guidance on trans-inclusive practices in UK museums, galleries, archives, and heritage sites. This guidance, while welcomed by advocates for trans rights, has faced criticism from some commentators in the UK press, highlighting the ongoing intensification of the debate surrounding trans rights.

The North Hertfordshire Museum's decision to recognize Elagabalus as transgender serves as a significant step towards inclusivity and historical accuracy within the museum sector. By using the preferred pronouns identified in classical texts, the museum sets an example for other institutions to follow in acknowledging and embracing diverse gender identities throughout history.

As societal understanding and acceptance of gender identity evolves, it is essential for museums and heritage sites to accurately represent historical figures and their experiences. The North Hertfordshire Museum's recognition of Elagabalus as transgender not only acknowledges the emperor's identity but also opens up valuable discussions about gender and identity in ancient Rome.