Minerva?s French Sisters: Women of Science in Enlightenment France

Six female scientists in eighteenth-century France whose stories were largely written out of history are presented in this book. These women, known as the "Minervas sisters," made significant contributions to their fields of science and Enlightenment society, despite facing gender expectations and conventional norms. Their boldness and contributions were appreciated by luminaries such as Franklin and European monarchs. The book is written in an unorthodox style to match the women's breaking of boundaries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2021
Publisher: Yale University Press

Six remarkable French women scientists of the 18th century, whose remarkable stories have often been overlooked in historical accounts, come to life in this captivating collective biography. These women, known as the "Minervas sisters" by historian Nina Gelbart, made significant contributions to their fields, yet their names have been largely excluded from the annals of scientific history.

Elisabeth Ferrand, a mathematician and philosopher, was a trailblazer who challenged traditional gender roles and made groundbreaking discoveries in mathematics and logic. Nicole Reine Lepaute, an astronomer, made groundbreaking observations of the heavens and helped establish the field of astrophysics. Jeanne Barret, a field naturalist, conducted pioneering research on plant biology and conservation, advocating for the protection of nature. Madeleine Françoise Basseporte, a garden botanist and illustrator, not only excelled in her scientific pursuits but also left a lasting legacy through her exquisite botanical illustrations. Marie-Marguerite Biheron, an anatomist and inventor, made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of anatomy and physiology, challenging prevailing beliefs and paving the way for future medical advancements. Geneviève dArconville, a chemist, made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the development of new methods for extracting metals and discovering new compounds.

These six women defied societal expectations and gender norms, breaking barriers and achieving scientific excellence in a time when science was not yet an established profession for women. Their boldness and contributions to science were recognized and celebrated by luminaries such as Benjamin Franklin, the philosophes, and many European monarchs. The book, written in an unconventional style that reflects the women's groundbreaking achievements, seeks to bring their stories to a wider audience and inspire future generations of scientists and scholars.

In conclusion, this collective biography offers a fresh perspective on the lives and legacies of these six remarkable French women scientists of the 18th century. By highlighting their accomplishments and challenging the historical narrative, it sheds light on the contributions of women to science and society during a time when their voices were often unheard. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of determination, innovation, and perseverance, and remind us of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in all fields of endeavor.

Weight: 696g
Dimension: 168 x 245 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300252569