Marguerite's Past
What was so shameful about Marguerite's past? Also, was Marguerite a prostitute? Is that what a courtesan is?
shareA courtesan is a sort of high-end prostitute. More like someone who is kept by a series of wealthy men than someone who charges by the hour. Her lovers may be genuinely in love with her or there may be a serious emotional relationship, but she always lives in style.
It was considered shocking and unprofessional for a courtesan to fall in love with a poor man!