Prostitutes in Stuart England: A Political and Social Analysis
Political Pornography and Prostitution
Melissa M. Mowry’s study,
“The Bawdy Politic in Stuart England, 1660-1714”
, examines the intersection of political pornography and prostitution during the Stuart era. She argues that Stuart partisans utilized representations of prostitutes and bawds as political tools to critique republicanism, framing the public sale of sex as a symbol of moral failings.
Archival Evidence and Methodology
Mowry’s research draws from substantial archival evidence, including records from the Middlesex Sessions and Bridewell Courtbooks. These historical documents provide insight into how political debates were influenced by societal attitudes toward prostitution.
The Intersection of Sexuality and Politics
The study highlights how political pamphlets and writings of the era often portrayed prostitutes as embodiments of moral corruption. This was a strategic move to discredit political opponents by associating them with immorality. Mowry’s analysis shows that prostitution was not just a moral issue but also a political one, used to shape public opinion and sway political discourse.
By examining these historical records, Mowry sheds light on the ways in which sexuality and politics intertwined during Stuart England. Her work challenges modern assumptions about the separation of politics and personal morality, offering a nuanced understanding of how historical contexts shape such intersections.
*TAGS* – Prostitutes Stuart England, Political Pornography, Stuart Era Prostitution, Republicanism Critique, Moral Corruption Symbolism, Historical Sexuality Politics, Political Pamphlets Analysis
