Short Biography: Hypatia De Alexandria

One of the first women known to study math, astronomy and philosophy, Hypatia de Alexandria was born about 370 A.D. in Alexandria, Egypt. Hypatia was the daughter of a mathematician and philosopher, Theon of Alexandria, whom she studied mathematics under the guidance and instruction of her father. Described as a beautiful and well-proportioned woman, Hypatia was a fortunate child. Hypatia was tutored by her father in the fields of arts, literature, science and philosophy, a part of many physical activities to ensure a long life, as well as trained in speech, enhancing her ability to relay her knowledge on to others and her giftedness to be an orator. Hypatia was believed to have surpassed her father’s knowledge at a young age. Being taught the fundamentals of teaching, Hypatia was learned to influence people with the power of words. Hypatia’s father was her role model, advisor, and companion. Hypatia and her father were foreseen as one of the foremost mathematicians in the Roman Empire, as well as most likely the world during their lifetimes.

The country and the church were united, reform Christianity to grow increasingly on Hypatia. There often were various religious riots in the early 390’s. Women during this era were considered to have no place in society and had no value. Hypatia was an extraordinary woman, but not only for her time. She led a life of a respected academic at Alexandria’s university, a position, where as far as evidence suggests, only males were entitled previously. Never married and remained celibate throughout her life, Hypatia devoted herself to learning and teaching. She was regarded to be an astronomer and mathematician in her own right, writing commentaries, and teaching students from her home. Hypatia’s intellect was nurtured by some of the best minds in the land, which enabled her to steer towards