Hypatia of Alexandria

Hypatia (c. 355 CE–415 CE) was a mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher who lived during a particularly turbulent era in Alexandria’s history. In her lifetime, Hypatia was the world’s leading mathematician and astronomer, the only woman for whom such a claim can be made. She was also a popular teacher of Neoplatonist philosophy, attracting scores of loyal students and large audiences. Her teachings and pagan beliefs, coupled with her public presence, ultimately led to her brutal murder by a mob of Christian zealots. As is common with many ancient figures, none of her work has survived, but writings by contemporaries, students, and historians portray her as intellectually brilliant and socially and religiously tolerant. Although her vicious death occupies much of current historical imagination, she should be most remembered for her steadfast commitment to inclusive teaching and learning and the spirit of curiosity and openness she embodied in a climate of anti-intellectualism, intolerance, and violence.