Hooker Power

One of my favorite themes in books and/or movies is that of historical women gaining independence and power through prostitution. It can be glorified, and is not the typical story of prostitutes, but I find it utterly fascinating. In a world where women were generally unable to become educated or earn a comfortable living for themselves (those who did not marry well or work in domestic service were often very poor), these ladies were able to do both by 'falling from grace'.

Gentlemen seeking their services would be looking for a good time - interesting, witty conversation, commiseration and sexy pleasures, all things most 'proper' wives were not taught. To provide these for their customers, higher-end prostitutes were often highly educated and well-read. This education, along with the pay they received, often allowed them to become shrewd businesswomen, and to become self-supporting and contented (I did say it could be glorified!)

My top book in this vein is The Crimson Petal and the White by Michael Faber - follows the stories of prostitutes throughout Victorian society, from the gutter to the palace. A friend of mine found his writing style grating, but I absolutely loved it!

As for a great film example:

For the sake of balance, I also offer you Very Young Girls. It does not glorify anything about prostitution, not even one little bit. Hold on to your faith in humanity while watching this one, people...it might just go missing.