Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Medieval Sex Work
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Jun 13, 2025 Ruth Karras, a leading expert on medieval sexuality and sex work from Trinity College Dublin, dives into the intriguing world of medieval sex work. She discusses how, despite the rise of Christianity, sex work flourished and was often legally sanctioned. Listeners learn about the vibrant atmosphere of 1407 brothels, the complexity of the term 'spinster,' and the societal contradictions surrounding sex workers. Karras sheds light on their daily lives, clothing regulations, and the challenges they faced, revealing a nuanced perspective on sexuality in the medieval era.
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Medieval Terms Blur Sex Work
- Medieval terms like 'whore' and 'meretrix' encompassed both sex work and sexual disapproval broadly.
- Many unmarried sexually active women were labeled as whores regardless of whether they considered themselves sex workers.
Medieval Sex Work Coercion
- Medieval sex work had elements of coercion similar to modern trafficking cases.
- Women often sought domestic work but were sometimes forced into brothels due to lack of options.
Legal Brothels for Public Order
- Many medieval towns had legal brothels to maintain public order and provide regulated outlets for male sexuality.
- Some justifications even aimed to reduce same-sex acts by encouraging heterosexual sex through brothels.