Who was Hypatia of Alexandria?

Hypatia of Alexandria was a Neo-Platonist philosopher who was murdered by a Christian mob in 415 CE. Her death is often cited as the end of the Classical Age and the beginning of the Christian Period.

How do you pronounce Hypatia?

Hypatia's name is pronounced "Ip-uh-tia" or "Hy-PAY-shuh."

Why was Hypatia murdered?

Hypatia's death is the direct result of religious intolerance. The Christians of Alexandria came to see her as a symbol of paganism and, like the statues and temples they also destroyed, felt she needed to be removed.

Is there a movie about Hypatia of Alexandria?

The 2009 film Agora details the life and death of Hypatia of Alexandria. Although some parts of the film are fictionalized, it is generally regarded as an accurate depiction of historical events.

Timeline: Hypatia of Alexandria

Definition

Hypatia of Alexandria (c. 370 - March 415) was a female philosopher and mathematician, born in Alexandria, Egypt possibly in 370 (although some scholars cite her birth as c. 350). Little is known of her life but her dramatic death at the hands of Christian fanatics is well-documented and has become what she is best remembered for.

More about: Hypatia of Alexandria

Timeline

c. 370 CE
Hypatia is born, daughter of Theon, in Alexandria, Egypt.
c. 390 CE
Hypatia is a teacher of philosophy, science and mathematics at the University of Alexandria.
415 CE
Hypatia is murdered by Christian mob and her body burned.

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