Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Sex Work in 18th Century Paris
Aug 16, 2024
Explore the vibrant world of 18th-century Paris, where sex work flourished amidst the Age of Enlightenment. Discover the staggering number of sex workers and high-class courtesans, as well as the complex societal roles they played. Delve into how the French Revolution shifted public perceptions, increasing the visibility of this hidden world. Uncover the influence of madams and police, the struggles of impoverished women, and the intricate relationships shaped by socio-economic dynamics. It's a historical journey through scandal, class, and aspiration.
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18th-Century Parisian Sex Work
- 18th-century Paris saw a rise in sex work due to urban growth and increased wealth.
- The state's capacity to deal with it shifted, with the elite transitioning from mistresses within their circles to courtesans from the theater.
Estimating Sex Workers
- Exaggerated figures of sex workers in 18th-century Paris often lacked clear definitions of sex work itself.
- The lines blurred between violating community norms and professional sex work, making accurate estimations difficult.
Arrests and Community Norms
- Elite courtesans were rarely arrested, unlike streetwalkers who disturbed the peace or were visibly scandalous.
- Arrests often stemmed from community complaints about noise or public indecency, not the act of selling sex itself.