Comparison and Discussion:The lives of courtesans,lorettes, streetwalkers and madams
Though all classes of prostitutes and courtesans were stigmatized by society, their lives were very different. It is hardly accurate to place them all in the same group, as their lives, functions in society, relationships, and appearance were so varied. The lives of these 'ladies of the night' were integral to society, and yet distinctly separate from the everyday world of 19th century France.
The class distinction among prostitutes in the era corresponded to the distinction among their clientele and lovers, as well as the rest of society. The elite had their well kept and fashionable courtesans, the middle and lower bourgeoisie had lorettes, and the common masses frequented brothels of varying quality.
Despite society's apparent distaste for prostitution of any kind, business was prolific throughout the entire 19th century, making prostitution a viable profession for women of all classes.