The Medieval Church and Prostitution
Christianity condemned prostitution as sinful but paradoxically tolerated and regulated it to prevent greater social evils. Medieval towns often had designated red-light districts, and brothels were sometimes licensed by authorities.
The Church sometimes viewed prostitution as a "necessary evil" that kept male lust in check. Famous medieval theologians like St. Augustine debated whether prostitution served any social purpose.
Renaissance and Early Modern Europe
During the Renaissance, prostitution remained widespread but became more visible in growing urban centers. The rise of city-states and mercantile wealth increased demand for sex work, especially from sailors, merchants, and soldiers.
In some cities, prostitutes were required to wear special badges or clothing for identification. Venereal diseases, especially syphilis, became rampant, leading to stricter regulations and public health measures.
Asia: Historical Perspectives on Sex Work
Sex work in Asia developed under different cultural and religious paradigms.
India
In ancient India, the concept of Devadasis involved women dedicated to temple service, often including ritualized sexual acts as part of worship. However, by the medieval period, the devadasi system became more exploitative.
The tawaif in Mughal India were courtesans skilled in music and poetry, patronized by the elite. They held complex social roles combining art and sexuality.
China and Japan
China had licensed brothels dating back to the Han dynasty. Prostitutes, especially singing girls and courtesans, were integral to the entertainment culture.
In Japan, the Yūjo (prostitutes) were part of a regulated system. The famous pleasure quarters like Yoshiwara in Edo (Tokyo) combined sex work with cultural performances. The geisha, though often confused with prostitutes, were primarily entertainers, but some engaged in sexual relationships with patrons. shutdown123