The World of Courtesans c8.171

c8.171

In this prelude to the topic discussing the courtesan, Vatsyayana describes the circumstances and principles governing clandestine love for the wives of other men. Before resorting to this kind of risk he is advised to ascertain accurately the dangers of this course and the advantages the woman was likely to bring him He is asked to estimate how this love would affect his own livelihood. He is advised to resort to another man's wife only if his love for her could no longer be restrained. The task of winning her is not regarded as an easy task. At times there was bound to be no response from this woman for she wanted to refrain from taking such a risky and immoral step. Regard for her family, fear of a public scandal and other factors including religious considerations also stood in her way.