Prostitution In John Steinbeck's East Of Eden

Prostitution has been around for thousands of years, earning its title as “the oldest profession” (Kolodny) Throughout John Steinbeck’s novel, East of Eden, he mentions prostitution numerous times and describes the places, people, and aspects of the job. Furthermore, he describes Kate’s time in profession, including the types of men she sees, the building she works in, and the details of her boss and coworkers. He describes the struggles that the owners face and the complexity of running the house. Steinbeck describes the job as an undesirable but viable career choice, far different from what it is viewed as today. Throughout the decades, the stigma around prostitution has drastically changed, and it has become viewed as a demeaning, immoral,

It has become a primary focus of not only the police force but also most of the nation to put an end to it. There are several possible reasons for this shift in sentiment , including the profound health risks associated with the profession. Over the years, more research has been done on the infections and diseases that can be contracted from such activities, and the public has become more aware of the severe health implications prostitution can have. Another possible explanation is the general rise in moral judgement throughout the nation. People have concluded that is wrong to sell your body for money and that there are other way jobs available that are less degrading. As the years progress, prostitution will continue to be viewed a corrupt and shameful profession. The public opinion around prostitution has dramatically changed over the past century. In John Steinbeck’s novel, East of Eden, he describes a time where prostitution was not only common but accepted. Throughout the novel, he mentions the profession several times and the public views surrounding it. However, in the past couple of decades, the public opinion of prostitution has shifted from a viable career choice to an immoral and shameful profession. As time goes on, the view on prostitution will likely continue to plummet, and there may finally be an end to “the oldest