"Vampires Upon The Nation’s Health": an Insight into Scottish Governance of Prostitution in The Early-twentieth Century

The aim of this dissertation is to delve into the geographical context and significant instances of prostitution in early twentieth-century Scotland. This study will investigate the locations identified as problematic, the various types of prostitutes present in Scotland, the legislative framework that governed their lives, and whether these elements evolved during the early twentieth century, particularly in light of the evidence presented to the subsequent Report of the Committee on Homosexual Offences and Prostitution.

Contextualizing Prostitution in Early-Twentieth Century Scotland

The historiography surrounding female prostitution has been extensively analyzed through various lenses. A feminist perspective, for instance, is prominent in discussions of this topic. Helen Self's work suggests that the governmental legislation of the time not only validated but also perpetuated the historical stigmatization of female prostitution, reflecting a desire to confine female sexuality within a patriarchal framework. Self argues that the Wolfenden Committee fostered a "climate of vulnerability," largely neglecting the need for protective measures for individuals within this profession.

Carol Smart's methodical analysis supports this view, asserting that governmental policies were primarily reactions to the perceived threat that liberal female sexuality posed to the "vulnerable nuclear family." Furthermore, while prostitution has often been examined within an English context, Jeffrey Weeks posits that the issue is less pronounced in Scotland. He emphasizes a need to redefine the relationship between law and the "private moral terrain of the citizen," indicating that both female sexuality and other sexual "deviances" were subject to scrutiny. This perspective highlights a gap in the scholarly examination of prostitution in Scotland, particularly during the interwar period.

Despite this oversight, historians such as Gayle Davis and Rodger Davidson have laid crucial groundwork on this topic. They have analyzed Scottish provisions in place, as well as the written and oral testimonies submitted to the Wolfenden Committee, investigating Scottish public opinion regarding its recommendations. Additionally, Louise Settle has focused on the geographical distribution of prostitutes, suggesting their persistent presence in urban centers throughout the twentieth century.

The Significance of the Selected Timeframe

This dissertation's focus on early twentieth-century Scotland is significant due to the fragmented nature of the period, marked by the two World Wars and their lasting impacts. Events surrounding these wars create a sense of temporal disjunction, making the years before and after appear distinct. The Report of the Committee on Homosexual Offences and Prostitution serves as a crucial touchstone for understanding the evolving societal attitudes, as it encapsulates modern perspectives while still reflecting pre-war societal ideals.

Sources and Methodology

To construct a comprehensive understanding of the Scottish prostitute during this period, a diverse array of sources will be examined. The first chapter will utilize Louise Settle's work, which includes primary maps and statistical data from her publication, 'The Social Geography of Prostitution in Edinburgh, 1900-1939.' In addition, contemporary newspaper articles will be analyzed to uncover claims of 'annoyance' in specific Scottish locales. However, one must be cautious of the media's tendency towards sensationalism.

The portrayal of prostitution in the media will be further explored through newspaper coverage of notable cases, examining public opinion and court perceptions of prostitutes. The National Archives of Scotland will also provide access to criminal court files, shedding light on how those involved—both the prostitutes and their 'pimp-like' associates—were treated by the judicial system. The final chapter will analyze the 'Report of the Committee on Homosexual Offences and Prostitution' (1957) in its entirety. This legislative document not only illuminates political attitudes toward prostitution but also addresses psychological dimensions, offering insights into the perceived mental state of prostitutes during this time.

Challenges in Addressing Prostitution

Despite its intentions, the Wolfenden Committee’s report primarily focused on homosexuality, relegating prostitution to a secondary concern. As Smart notes, "The major concern of the report was homosexuality, with prostitution appearing as something of an after-thought." This indicates that the Committee may have allocated disproportionate resources and attention to the two issues, as evidenced by primary sources from the National Archives of Scotland, including a series of letters from E. Freeman. Furthermore, the report’s emphasis on England rather than Scotland suggests that the latter experienced less controversy surrounding the issue.

Utilizing Diverse Evidence

To address the aforementioned challenges, this dissertation will incorporate both official and unofficial evidence submitted by Scottish experts and witnesses. This will include insights from committee members such as Mary Cohen, the former chairwoman of the Glasgow Union of Girls’ Clubs and a member of the National Vigilance Association of Scotland.

Conclusion

Through a comprehensive analysis of geographical contexts, legislative frameworks, and societal perceptions, this dissertation seeks to illuminate the complexities surrounding prostitution in early twentieth-century Scotland. By examining primary sources and diverse scholarly interpretations, a clearer picture of the governance of prostitution and its implications on public health can be achieved.

References

• Self, Helen. "Prostitution and the State: A Feminist Perspective." Journal of Gender Studies.
• Smart, Carol. "The Politics of Female Sexuality." Feminist Review.
• Weeks, Jeffrey. "Sexuality and the Law: An English Perspective." Social and Legal Studies.
• Davis, Gayle, and Rodger Davidson. "Prostitution in Scotland: A Historical Overview." Scottish Historical Review.
• Settle, Louise. "The Social Geography of Prostitution in Edinburgh, 1900-1939." Scottish Geographical Journal.
• Report of the Committee on Homosexual Offences and Prostitution. (1957). National Archives of Scotland.