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Bettie Page: A Triumph of Sexual Spirit

Biographer hails late model's refusal to let the spotlight tarnish her sexuality

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Dec 13, 2008 9:33 AM CST

(Newser) – Bettie Page suffered more than her share of troubles, but the late pinup star never succumbed to victimhood, biographer Karen Essex writes in the Huffington Post. Essex tracked down the model in 1991 expecting the born-again Christian to denounce the men who "hijacked her beauty and sensuality for their own gratification," and was surprised to discover that Page looked back on her modeling days with fondness.

"God created us naked," Page said to explain her lack of inhibition in front of the camera, and the bondage photo shoots were "fun," even "hilarious." Page refused to let herself be shamed by her sexuality, Essex writes, but instead delighted in the "full-blown sexual power" that made her an American icon. "I hope that Bettie is remembered for her sexual joy," Essex writes, "and for the gleeful spirit she brought to sexual imagery."

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This undated photo provided by CMG Worldwide shows Bettie Page. Page, the 1950s secretary-turned-model who helped set the stage for the 1960s sexual revolution, died Thursday. (AP Photo/CMG Worldwide)

American glamour model and pin-up girl Bettie Page, circa 1955. (Getty Images)

Bettie Page is pictured in this undated photo. Page passed away yesterday aged 85. (©igKnition.)

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1997 TV interview with Bettie Page. (FilmFanTV)

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A female friend of mine said this morning, 'Bettie Page did more for sexual expression than Alfred Kinsey.' Amen, sister. - Karen Essex

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Bettie Page: A Triumph of Sexual Spirit