My research looks at how conflicting ideals of female sexuality, the divine virgin and seductive courtesan, are expressed through depictions of women in art during the Classical period. This research leads to inquiries on how the concept of chastity and purity influences the representation of sexually active women in erotic art, and the role of hetairai as models for artists. I'm additionally interested in how nudity and sexuality plays a role in female nuptial ritual, and how these images provide a multi-dimensional perspective on gender roles, power and consent.
