Analysis of information sources in references of the Wikipedia article "Geisha" in Simple English language version.
Though the precise reasons for [the decline] in the public's perception of the Yoshiwara [Edo brothel district] during the 19th century can only be speculated, the decline was as precipitous as it was undeniable. By the early 20th century, the aura of dignity and élan the courtesans had once exuded was all but lost, and these women, many of whom suffered from venereal disease, appeared more like sexual slaves than celebrities. (page 102)
