Freewomen, Patriarchal Authority, and the Accusation of Prostitution

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Focusing on independent women throughout history, the book explores the roles of freewomen in Mesopotamia, ancient Greek hetaira, Renaissance courtesans, Japanese Geisha, and Hindu devad s. Stephanie Lynn Budin challenges the perception of these figures, often labeled as prostitutes, by highlighting their complexity and significance in their respective societies. The study offers a nuanced perspective on how these women navigated their social environments, revealing their contributions and the cultural contexts in which they thrived.