The post can deal with any sort of encounter with Victorian culture, as broadly defined as they like. Here is a recent highlight:. During a class discussion of prostitution in the Victorian era, we were posed the question: Would you rather be a prostitute or a factory worker? However, through the examination of W. Today, prostitution is still a taboo. I propose that my classmates selected this option as progressive scholars who are not prejudiced against sex work.
This indicates that prostitution was a societal epidemic and the writer subscribes to the adage of prevention being better than the cure. But why was prostitution so abhorrent? Stead answers this through vivid descriptions of violent torture that prostitutes were subjected to.
These are utilised as synonyms for those who found themselves turning to prostitution. No wonder it was referred to as the Great Social Evil. To investigate the problem, Stead interviewed anonymous brothel keepers. This example of sexual slavery indicates that Victorian society viewed prostitutes as subhuman property, to be sold to the highest bidder.
However, arguments surrounding the ethics of prostitution still rumble on. Roberts, M. Baylen, J. Stead, W. Leech, J. Punch , 12 September. London Stereoscopic Co. William Thomas Stead. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Close Search. Close Login. Home Categories Archive Close. Stead, from www. Figure 2: The Great Social Evil.
Bibliography Roberts, M. Well done on a great piece Archie! Posted on February 7, Posted by Beth Palmer. Post a comment Cancel reply Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
