Hooker with a heart of gold

The "hooker with a heart of gold" is a classic character archetype, portraying a courtesan or sex worker who embodies virtues like kindness, generosity, and integrity, despite her morally complex profession. This figure often serves as a contrast to societal expectations, highlighting her decency while addressing the circumstances that led to her occupation. Rooted in ancient traditions, from the sympathetic hetairai of Greek comedy to the revered courtesan Vasantasena in India’s Mṛcchakatika, the trope has evolved across cultures and eras.

In Western literature, it gained prominence in the 19th century through works like La Dame aux Camélias, which inspired adaptations such as Verdi’s La Traviata. In modern media, the archetype became widely recognized in films like Pretty Woman, blending romanticized narratives with critiques of societal attitudes.