Inside the Brothel of Pompeii
Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society
Deep Dive
Why is the brothel in Pompeii considered unique in Roman history?
The brothel in Pompeii, known as the Lupinar, is the only known purpose-built brothel from the Roman world. It is unique because it was a dedicated space for selling sex, unlike other locations where sex work might have occurred as a side activity in taverns or bathhouses.
What evidence suggests that the brothel in Pompeii might have been a failed economic experiment?
The brothel likely failed as a business venture because it couldn't charge higher prices than street prostitutes. Despite offering a more immersive experience with graffiti, alcohol, and emotional connections, it didn't generate enough profit to justify the investment in a dedicated structure.
How did Roman society view sex work in terms of legality and social acceptance?
For male clients, buying sex was completely legal and socially acceptable in Roman society. However, those who provided sex, often enslaved individuals, faced significant legal and social restrictions, including limited access to inheritance and the legal system.
What role did graffiti play in the brothel of Pompeii?
Graffiti in the brothel served as a form of communication between clients and sex workers. It included praises, personal messages, and even prices for services, offering insights into the relationships and interactions within the brothel. It also provides rare voices of enslaved individuals and sex workers.
Who were the likely clients of the brothel in Pompeii?
Most of the graffiti in the brothel suggests that the clients were likely enslaved men, as the names recorded are typical of enslaved individuals. These men, who were often subject to nonconsensual sex in their households, used their small allowances to purchase sex and assert their masculinity in the brothel.
What does the presence of razors and cleaning paraphernalia in the brothel suggest?
The discovery of razors and cleaning tools in the brothel suggests that hygiene was important, likely for both clients and sex workers. Razors were likely used for facial hair, indicating the presence of male sex workers who aimed to maintain a youthful appearance.
What was the significance of phallic imagery in Pompeii?
Phallic imagery in Pompeii was considered a symbol of good luck. Penises were carved into houses, street corners, and even used as wind chimes. They were not erotic but rather protective and auspicious symbols in Roman culture.
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