Vanessa McCarthy

In this engaging discussion, historian Vanessa McCarthy from the University of Toronto delves into the vibrant world of sex work in Renaissance Italy. She uncovers the legally recognized sex work industry in 16th century Bologna, revealing the complex roles of courtesans and the societal perceptions surrounding them. The conversation explores the legal challenges female sex workers faced, the duality of their experiences as victims and empowered individuals, and how shifting political tides influenced the stigmatization of sex work. McCarthy’s insights illuminate a rich yet often overlooked facet of history.