A collection of ladies who were renowned for their ability to seduce world leaders; and enthrall nations. In times when women did not have many options, they embraced their sexualities and, in return, found a measure of independence. The most cunning courtesans gathered wealth, held power, and swayed politics. They not only influenced the men in their lives but the world.

Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courtesan
https://crimereads.com/the-courtesan-a-fascinating-woman/
http://blogs.shu.edu/ecww/project/veronica-ilg/
https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2002-04-03-0204030278-story.html