Oftentimes the phrase “the world’s oldest profession” is used to refer to escort-type services or female escorts. Although that phrase is somewhat of a misnomer, it reflects the history of people that offer companionship in exchange for money or other forms of compensation. The role of female escorts or female companions has existed in different forms throughout human history and, as such, the idea has evolved over time.
Even as such, there are many misconceptions about the service and the female escorts. So, by shedding light on the different shapes that an escort could take throughout history, from the Japanese geishas to the courtesans in Europe, and all the way back to the modern escort in London, it’s possible to reach a better understanding of the profession’s historical and cultural significance, and break down stereotypes surrounding the role of an escort.
Ancient Civilizations
In ancient cultures, the concept of providing companionship was common. In ancient Mesopotamia, for example, such practices existed in religious contexts. Temples would oftentimes house women who were believed to be servants of the deity of love, beauty and war, named Ishtar. These women would participate in rites as part of the religious practices that were believed to ensure the fertility and prosperity of their community.
Ancient Greeks also had a variety of public and private courtesans. In these cultures, female escorts (and sometimes men too) were paid for their companionship and their roles were seen as part of society’s structure. Not only was this profession legal in Ancient Greece, it was also taxed by the state and, as such, it played a significant role in society. The practice was widespread and considered necessary for having a fulfilling life, especially in urban areas. The highest class of escorts were hired by wealthy men for long-term relationships and were expected to participate in social events too.
Geishas in Japan
The role of a geisha in Japan is a prime example of a historical form of escort. Geishas were (and still are) highly respected women, skilled in music, dance, conversation and other cultural arts. Although the role of a geisha was not necessarily explicit, they were often sought after for companionship and entertainment, particularly among the elite.
Geishas represent a combination of artistry, social skills and companionship, and they offer a more nuanced view of the escort industry throughout history.
Courtesans in Renaissance Europe
In Renaissance Europe, courtesans were most of the time well-educated women who could hold intellectual conversations, offer social graces and were highly sought after for their companionship. There are also courtesans that were poets or other forms of artists, such as Veronica Franco from Venice, who was a poet.
These women would use their stunning looks and incredible intellect and social prowess by acting as confidantes and companions to wealthy and powerful men, as such managing to move up in the echelons of society. Although, in 1546, all the establishments in England were closed, that only made it so that escorts became more complicated to come by. Even so, the profession continued to thrive, especially in London, where it was estimated that one in five women were engaged in trade.
Escorts as Muses in Art and Literature
Throughout history, female escorts and similar figures have inspired works of art, like literature and music, with their beauty and intelligence. During the Renaissance, Titian was a painter who would use as models the courtesans from Venetian Society. On another part of the world, Murasaki Shikibu created a literary piece that captures the culture of courtly companionship, such as the services of geishas. Another example is Emile Zola. He portrayed a courtesan whose life was a symbol of the excesses and flaws of society in his novel titled Nana.
Even in modern times, there are many examples of escorts being portrayed in art and media. Such is the case in many blues and jazz songs. In the early 20th century, female escorts inspired many songs. For example, Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday often would sing about love, independence and survival which would many times resonate with women in similar professions. In movies such as Pretty Woman, made in 1990, the exists the theme of the romanticization of the escort industry, showing that even modern-day escorts can and will always inspire storytelling and art.
Escort Services in the Modern World
Over the past centuries, escorts have evolved significantly. Especially as the internet emerged and became popular, more modern escort services have appeared. Escort agencies have all kinds of platforms where clients can interact and choose their preferences as well as the escorts themselves can write about themselves too.
The idea of high-end escort services has become more popular as well. They focus on providing more exclusive, discreet and refined companionship, with the target audience being wealthy individuals, often in cities like London.
Cultural Variations
The role of an escort depends on the culture. In Western culture, escorts are seen as professional companions who may not even offer their services. Another example is in the Middle East where escorts might operate in a hidden fashion because of all the restrictions that exist on the matter of intimacy. Escort services also vary depending in the legal framework around it. There are many differences around the world when it comes to the legality of the service. For instance, in an escort in London is legal, as long as it does not involve certain illegal activities like coercion.
Originating from ancient times, female escorts have been documented all throughout history. It is a profession that has remained relevant from then all the way to modern day. The role of escorts has persisted, whether it takes the form of a European courtesan, Japanese geisha or modern-day London escort, due to the need of companionship and social connection, which remains and will always be the most normal human desire, one that no matter someone’s status, wealth or social hierarchy they will still search for.
