Legal Definitions - courtesan

Definition: A courtesan is a woman who is a mistress to a member of a royal court or a wealthy patron. She is often highly educated, skilled in conversation, and trained in the arts of music, dance, and poetry. However, the term can also refer to a prostitute or a loose woman.

Examples:

• During the Renaissance, courtesans were highly sought after for their beauty, wit, and charm. They were often the muses of famous artists and writers.
• In the novel "Memoirs of a Geisha," the main character Sayuri is trained to become a courtesan in Japan.
• Unfortunately, many women throughout history have been forced into prostitution and labeled as courtesans, without their consent or choice.

The examples illustrate the different meanings of the term "courtesan." In the first example, a courtesan is portrayed as a respected and admired figure in society. In the second example, a courtesan is associated with the traditional Japanese art of the geisha. However, in the third example, the term is used to describe women who are victims of exploitation and abuse.