Harlots

Harlots is a captivating period drama television series from Hulu Originals that aired from 2017 to 2019. Set in the backdrop of 18th century Georgian London, the three-season series unfolds a unique, complex narrative about the bustling world of vice and virtue, wealth and poverty, and power and deprivation. The series thrives on its artful portrayal of historical characters and its window into a less explored part of history, providing an engrossing tale full of raw intensity and emotional depth.

A central theme of Harlots is the struggle for power and survival in a society that is ruthlessly patriarchal. The narrative primarily revolves around two fiercely competitive brothels run by Margaret Wells and Lydia Quigley. Margaret, played by Samantha Morton, is a tenacious and strong-witted madam determined to climb the social ladder from the lower echelons of society. Lydia Quigley, played by Lesley Manville, is a savvy, high-class madam who runs a swanky “cunny house” attracting high-profile clients.

Evocatively uncensored, Harlots provides a look into the world of sex work from a female perspective. It unflinchingly delves into the lives of women for whom harlotry wasn't a choice but a means to survive in the harsh capitalistic and classist environment. The series portrays these stories of struggle and survival with sensitivity and nuance, steering clear of over-sexualizing or objectifying the characters, and instead, treating them as individuals with their ambitions and vulnerabilities.

One of the strong features of Harlots is its extensive, diverse ensemble, which brings to life a gritty world full of distinct personalities with believable motivations and actions. The standout performances by Morton, Manville, and Jessica Brown-Findlay, who plays Charlotte Wells, Margaret's elder daughter and a courtesan in her mother's brothel, give the show its remarkable depth.

More than just a 'period drama,' Harlots provides a socio-political commentary on class, power, and gender politics of the era. Throughout the series, the viewer is allowed insights into high society's hypocrisy and the double standards that existed. It skillfully depicts the gender dynamics and the overwhelming desire of its women characters to gain autonomy and agency over their lives.

Harlots also excels in the creation of a vibrant 18th-century London with all its decadence and charm. The production design and the costumes personify the period authentically, providing a visually stirring representation of London at the time. The show's atmospheric, entrancing soundtrack further enhances the viewing experience.

In its exploration of the 18th-century sex trade, Harlots doesn't shy away from the bleakness and the harsh realities, but it also includes instances of irreverent humor, wit, and camaraderie among the women, giving the show an undeniably human touch. With its rich narrative, exceptional performances, and historical details, the series binds the audience in a blend of emotion, suspense, and intrigue.

Harlots offers a fresh perspective on the genre, moving away from the common trope of romanticizing the past. What sets the series apart is its commitment to real representation - whether it is the flawed, compelling characters or the depictions of inequality and discrimination. While showcasing the crude reality, the series does not lose hope or respect for its characters, managing to leave the audience with an understanding and empathy for those who lived within such a reality.

This engaging series was inspired by “The Covent Garden Ladies” by Hallie Rubenhold, a meticulous detail of Harris’s List of Covent Garden Ladies, a directory of prostitutes working in Georgian London. Handled by an almost entirely female creative team, the series is successful in providing authentic representation, away from the usual male gaze.

In summary, Harlots is fiercely feminist and powerfully poignant, with well-rounded characters and a compelling narrative. The series distinguishes itself for its striking portrayal of women's lives in 18th-century London and its commitment to unfiltered storytelling. It is an uncomfortable and unforgettable journey that, while set in a particular historical period, carries universal themes of survival, resilience, and ambition that resonate effortlessly with a modern audience.