Sexual Prowess: the Social Importance of Hetaira in Classical Athens
Submission Type
Event
Expected Graduation Date
2013
Location
Room E105, Center for Natural Sciences, Illinois Wesleyan University
Start Date
4-20-2013 11:00 AM
End Date
4-20-2013 12:00 PM
Abstract
Long thought to be simply prostitutes, hetaira were actually very educated and, more often than not, wealthier women who were very shrewd in business as well as sexual activities. This paper will examine the social importance of hetairai in Classical Athens through archaeological evidence. The evidence that will be used will be predominantly red-figure pottery, but also some archeological sites in Athens will be examined. The moral opinion of prostitution in general will be discussed in conjunction with the success of the brothels located in Classical Athens. Along with the discussion of moral opinion, a brief overview will be made of the vocabulary used in Ancient Greek connotations when describing prostitutes and brothels.
Sexual Prowess: the Social Importance of Hetaira in Classical Athens
Room E105, Center for Natural Sciences, Illinois Wesleyan University
Long thought to be simply prostitutes, hetaira were actually very educated and, more often than not, wealthier women who were very shrewd in business as well as sexual activities. This paper will examine the social importance of hetairai in Classical Athens through archaeological evidence. The evidence that will be used will be predominantly red-figure pottery, but also some archeological sites in Athens will be examined. The moral opinion of prostitution in general will be discussed in conjunction with the success of the brothels located in Classical Athens. Along with the discussion of moral opinion, a brief overview will be made of the vocabulary used in Ancient Greek connotations when describing prostitutes and brothels.