Women Who Went Before
Was the Oldest Profession a Profession?
Oct 25, 2022
Dr. Thomas A. J. McGinn, a Roman history expert from Vanderbilt University, dives into the murky world of ancient Roman prostitution. He sheds light on how societal norms and laws shaped women's lives, revealing how even empresses like Theodora fought for their autonomy amidst patriarchal oppression. The conversation touches on the parallels between Roman sex workers and comfort women of WWII, and challenges the narratives that have historically undermined women's contributions and experiences. A compelling exploration of agency through the ages!
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Quick takeaways
- Theodora's journey from a life of exploitation to prominence highlights the complex intersections of gender, class, and economic survival in ancient Rome.
- Roman prostitution, governed by systemic economic structures, illustrates the significant control exerted over women, limiting their autonomy and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
Deep dives
The Life of Theodora: From Poverty to Power
The story of Theodora, born into a struggling family in Constantinople, illustrates the harsh realities faced by women in ancient Rome. After losing her father at a young age and experiencing her family's decline due to political corruption, she was forced into acting and eventually sexual servitude before puberty. Despite her turbulent beginnings and the damaging allegations made against her, Theodora would rise to prominence and become Empress, utilizing her influence to advocate for exploited women. Her life reflects the intersection of class, gender, and economic survival in a society that often commodified women's bodies.
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