Hypatia of Alexandria (born c. 350–370; died 415 AD)

The mathematician and philosopher Hypatia is the earliest woman scientist whose life is well documented. Although most of her writings have been lost, numerous references to them exist. Hypatia flourished in Alexandria from the second part of the 4th century until her violent death incurred by a mob in 415.

Hypatia's father, Theon, was a mathematician and astronomer at the Museum. He closely supervised every aspect of his daughter's education. Theon was a distinguished professor of mathematics at the University of Alexandria. He later became the director of the University, where Hypatia spent a lot of her time at.

She travelled to Athens and Italy, impressing all she met with her intellect and beauty. Upon her return to Alexandria, Hypatia became a teacher of mathematics and philosophy. Hypatia was a chaste person and a respectful teacher of mathematics and neo-platonic philosophy in Alexandria. Wearing a rough cynic philosopher’s cloak (trivona) she taught in public (exigeito dimosia) to an audience consisting of both pagans and Christians.
Hypatia of Alexandria (born c. 350–370; died 415 AD)

Modern Alexandria