In The Memoirs of Harriet Wilson, Volumes One and Two Written by Herself, readers get a glimpse behind the scenes of Victorian society through the autobiography of the famous British courtesan Harriet Wilson. Records made by the author herself reveal the intrigues, romance, scandals and religious views of the era. Harriet Wilson talks unadorned about her life, entertainment, acquaintances with prominent personalities of her time, as well as about the social problems that interested her. This autobiographical journey opens the historical context to the reader and allows one to delve into the nuances of life in the 19th century.