Hypatia is considered the first female scientist, as well as philosopher.  She was instructed as a girl by her father Theon, a brilliant mathematician, in Alexandria, Egypt.  She learned well, excelled not only in math and philosophy but a variety of sciences including astronomy. She even designed scientific instruments, ultimately became a teacher. Letters from a fortunate, now-long-dead student exist; his praise of her is extravagant.

She is reputed to have been beautiful, graceful, brilliant and virginal.  Her wisdom was so valued that even the rising politicians and religious leaders of the day sought her opinions. 

Unfortunately for Hypatia, Bishop Cyril of St. Mark (later canonized by the Roman Catholic Church) was attempting to Christianize the city of Alexandria during Hypatia’s lifetime.  He struggled for power with Orestes, the Prefect of Alexandria.  Hypatia sided with Orestes and made an enemy of Cyril, who incited a mob (the monks of Nitria).  The monks dragged Hypatia from her chariot, mutilated and murdered her. We are fortunate any of Hypatia’s wisdom and work remain, but it will never be known what she might have written or discovered had she not been murdered.