Final answer:
The exact number of brothels in Paris in 1810 is difficult to determine from the provided textual references, as historical documentation can be sparse or non-specific for that period. However, the provided information does highlight the prevalence of prostitution and the vibrant nightlife in 19th century Paris, especially in the Montmartre district.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of how many brothels there were in Paris in 1810 is rooted in the historical context of the period. During the 19th century, prostitution was a prevalent phenomenon in Paris and other major cities. With the significant increase of the city's population, which by the end of the 18th century exceeded 670,000, the nightlife in Paris, particularly in areas like Montmartre, became more vibrant with a variety of cafes and dance halls where men and women mingled freely.
It is important to note that while prostitution existed in many forms, with some women engaging in it informally or sporadically, professional prostitutes typically worked in brothels. These brothels not only provided sex workers with more privacy compared to other forms of labor such as factory work or domestic service, but they were also marketed in tourists' guides as part of the city's attractions.
Despite the relevance of the topic to social history, specific numerical data on the exact number of brothels operating in 1810 Paris is not readily available in the provided references. Brothels of the time were a mix of purpose-built and repurposed buildings, suggesting a fluidity in the spaces where prostitution occurred. Sex work was not confined to brothels alone; it also took place on the streets and in private residences.