In ancient Greece, a courtesan or educated companion; a woman who was part of the intellectual and social circles of ancient Greek society.
From Greek hetaira (female companion), feminine form of hetairos (companion). The term evolved to describe women of higher status than common prostitutes, often educated and cultured.
Hetairai like Aspasia were some of the most intellectually influential women in ancient Athens—they could own property, conduct business, and participate in philosophical discussions in ways respectable wives couldn't, making them complicated figures in ancient feminism.
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