Poems and Selected Letters by Veronica Franco

Indeed, what was fundamental was the efforts one makes in order to reach a result and not biological characteristics. From her verses, it is possible to understand that she believed in the predominance of the vigor of the soul over the strength of the body, claiming that women and men could achieve the same results. Her work shows a personal meditation about herself and her life, highlighting topics dear to her, such as the women position in society and gender equality. In a time when the Petrarch verse dominated the literary scene, Franco decided to compose in tercet, to enhance the narrative rhythm of her poetry.

This esteemed cultural gathering was run by the poet Domenico Venier, who became Veronica’s patron, playing an important role in the publication of her first collection of poetry, Terze Rime, in 1575. Joining the literary salon “ Ca’ Venier” was a fundamental step for her career as a poetess. Veronica Franco was destined to become the most famous high - ranked courtesan of her times. The peaks of this profession lied in the freedom, independence and, as mentioned above, in the constant access to culture, often precluded to women. In conclusion, as the poet Pietro Aretino perfectly described “ Venus became a woman of letters”. They showed a great deal of cultural knowledge and talents, such as music, literature and arts. Therefore, these women were elegant and educated. Whereas, the “ cortigiana onesta” (honest courtesan), was a higher rank courtesan, whose duty was to act as a partner for company, entertainment and intellectual discussions. They used to work on the shades of Rialto Bridge, had a low social status and were selected purely for carnal pleasure, regardless of any intellectual and social skills.

The “ cortigiana di lume” looked like a general prostitute. It can sound odd, but being a courtesan concealed some benefits, if you were the right one! Venice, indeed, recognised two, very different, types of courtesans.

Poems and Selected Letters by Veronica Franco