Geishas: The Truth Behind These Fascinating Women (Video)
Unveiling the reality of historical geishas challenges Western stereotypes, dispelling the notion that they were mere courtesans or prostitutes. In contrast to misconceptions, the geisha's life was a demanding journey of exhaustive training, offering Japanese women a means to financial independence during the Edo period. Originally, male geishas, known as taikomochi, entertained with diverse roles such as court jesters and storytellers. Over time, women embraced the profession, evolving from the earlier practice of sending daughters to singing and dancing lessons. The term "geisha" emerged when these women reached adulthood, denoting practitioners of the arts. Contrary to widespread beliefs, authentic geishas were not prostitutes; a distinction blurred during World War II when American soldiers engaged with imitations.
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The misperception persisted due to an outdated practice, where aspiring geishas underwent a one-time act, selling their virginity. However, the geishas' main role was entertainment, mastering arts like singing, dancing, and shamisen playing. Their rigorous training, starting as early as age 3, involved learning various arts, calligraphy, flower arranging, and the delicate skill of captivating conversations. A geisha's duty extended beyond entertainment, serving drinks and food while adhering to a strict code of confidentiality. With the decline in their numbers today, geishas, with years of experience, continue to mentor newcomers, challenging societal norms by fostering independence in a male-dominated era.
Top image: Geishas, once misunderstood as courtesans, they were the epitome of grace, mastering arts and skills that challenged the stereotypes of their time. Source: Max Ferrero/Adobe Stock
