Biographies of W omen Mathematicians Home Alphabetical Index Chronological Index Resources ... Search Maria Gaetana Agnesi May 16, 1718 - January 9, 1799 Written by Elif Unlu, Class of 1995 (Agnes Scott College) Even though her contribution to mathematics are very important, Maria Gaetana Agnesi was not a typical famous mathematician. She led a quite simple life and she gave up mathematics very early. At first glance her life may seem to be boring, however, considering the circumstances in which she was raised, her accomplishments to mathematics are glorious. Enjoy! During the Middle Ages, under the influence of Christendom, many European countries were opposed to any form of higher education for females. Women were mostly deprived from the fundamental elements of education, such as reading and writing, claiming that these were a source of temptation and sin. For the most part, learning was confined to monasteries and nunneries which constituted the only opportunity for education open to girls during the Middle Ages. After the fall of Constantinople (today Istanbul), many scholars migrated to Rome, bringing Europe knowledge and critical thinking, which in turn gave rise to the Renaissance. However, except in Italy, the status of women throughout Europe changed very slowly. In Italy, however, where the Renaissance had its origin, women made their mark on the academic world. Intellectual women were admired by men, they were never ridiculed for being intellectual and educated. This attitude enabled Italian women to participate in arts, medicine, literature, and mathematics. Among many others, Maria Gaetana Agnesi was by far one of the most important and extraordinary figure in mathematics during the 18th century. | |
|
