EPISODE PLOT
The sixth episode of the series “Scientists Who ‘Discovered’ for Humanity” is based on the life of Hypatia, the great Greek philosopher, mathematician, and astronomer, who was born, taught, and died in Alexandria, Egypt (~355–415 CE). Hypatia was a remarkable woman with a strong and vibrant personality, moral principles, and a high level of education. And this at a time when it was more common for boys to receive an education than girls. She was beloved and respected by everyone, and she had loyal and devoted students. In fact, he advised and guided influential figures on matters of governance and public affairs. At a time when Alexandria was engulfed in political and religious strife, Hypatia was unjustly accused and brutally murdered.
No texts by Hypatia have survived to this day. However, there are many references to her writings, and works by other authors and historians regarding her life, her activities, and her death have survived. Hypatia was a charismatic figure whose contributions and character left an indelible mark on human history and science.
Narration: George Evgenikos
Music: Mara Kaisari
Research - Text editing: Maria Vlachaki
We owe our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Christina Fili, former professor at the National Technical University of Athens and historian of mathematics, for her scholarly assistance. Ms. Fili was recently honored by the International Academy of the History of Science, based in Paris, with the Alexandre Koyré Medal for her lifetime achievements in research.
Duration: 20 minutes and 16 seconds
You can listen to and/or download the podcast from the Eugenides Foundation’s channel on Spotify HERE.
RECOMMENDED READING LIST
Acheilara, A. (2014). Hypatia. Athens: Ostria.
Dendrinos, M. (2021). Hypatia: Astronomy, mathematics, and philosophy in the twilight of the ancient world. Athens: Joint.
Kounti, M. (2015). Synesius of Cyrene. Athens: Barbounaki.
Spandagos, V. K., Spandagou, R. & Traulos, D. (1994). Mathematicians of Ancient Greece: Biographical information and works by mathematicians of Ancient Greece from 900 B.C. to 550 A.D. Athens: Aithra.
Fili, Christina P. (2009). Power and Mathematics. Athens: Papasotiriou.
Christianidis, Yiannis (2003). Topics from the history of mathematics: Egyptian, Babylonian, and Greek mathematics. Heraklion: University of Crete Press.
Alic, M. (2009). The Legacy of Hypatia: The history of women scientists from antiquity to the end of the 19th century. Translated by E. Tzelepoglou. Athens: Ekati.
Dzielska, Maria (1997). Hypatia of Alexandria. Translated by G. Kousounelos. Athens: Enalios.
Flower, Derek-Adie (2002). On the Shores of Wisdom: The history of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Athens: A.A. Livani
Galvez, Pedro (2006). Hypatia: The woman who loved science. Athens: Crossroads.
Trarieux, G. (2000). Hypatia. Translated by G. Karvelas. Athens: University Studio Press.
Alic, M. (1986). Hypatia’s legacy: A History of Women in Science from Antiquity to the Late Nineteenth Century. Boston: Beacon Press.
Bregman, J. (1982). Synesius of Cyrene: Philosopher-Bishop. Oakland, California: University of California Press.
Deakin, M. (2007). Hypatia of Alexandria: Mathematician and martyr. New York: Prometheus Books.
Donovan, S. (2008). Hypatia: Mathematician, inventor, and philosopher. Minneapolis: Compass Point Books.
Dzielska, M. (1996). Hypatia of Alexandria. Translated by F. Lyra. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard University Press.
Lewis, T. (1721). The story of Hypatia, a most impudent schoolteacher from Alexandria: Murdered and torn to pieces by the mob while defending Saint Cyril and the Alexandrian clergy. Regarding the accusations made by Mr. Toland. By Mr. Lewis. London: T. Bickerton.
Toland, J. (1720). Tetradymus. London: J. Brotherton and W. Meadows in Cornhill.