Pythagorean Women

The Pythagorean women, who were followers of Pythagoras, were intellectual, thinkers, teachers, and philosophers. They were viewed as experts of the household but also as well-rounded thinkers philosophizing about the principles of the cosmos, human society, the immortality of the soul, numbers, and harmonics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Pythagorean women, a cohort of esteemed female philosophers, held close association with Pythagoras and are recognized for their contributions to the realm of philosophy. Their intellectual prowess and profound insights extended across both phases of Pythagoreanism, encompassing the fifth-century Pythagorean societies and the Hellenistic Pythagorean writings. In these historical contexts, the Pythagorean woman emerges as an esteemed intellectual, a thinker, a teacher, and a philosopher. This Element aims to address the central question: what kind of philosopher was the Pythagorean woman?

The conventional portrayal of the Pythagorean female sage often depicts her as an authority in the domestic realm. However, the author contends that the available evidence presents a more intricate and multifaceted perspective, revealing the Pythagorean woman as both an expert in the feminine sphere and a well-rounded philosopher engaged in profound philosophizing about fundamental principles encompassing the cosmos, human society, the immortality of the soul, numbers, and harmonics.

During the fifth-century Pythagorean societies, the Pythagorean woman played a significant role as a member of these philosophical communities. She actively engaged in discussions, shared ideas, and contributed to the advancement of knowledge. The Pythagorean women were not confined to the domestic sphere but also held positions of authority and influence within their communities. They were respected for their intellectual abilities and were often consulted on matters of philosophy, mathematics, and science.

In the Hellenistic Pythagorean writings, the Pythagorean woman continued to be recognized as a philosopher and thinker. She is depicted as engaging in philosophical debates, exploring complex concepts, and offering insights into the principles of the cosmos and human existence. The Pythagorean women's writings demonstrate their deep understanding of various subjects and their ability to articulate their ideas in a clear and concise manner.

One of the notable aspects of the Pythagorean woman's philosophy is her emphasis on the unity of all things. She believed that the principles of mathematics and the natural world were interconnected, and that understanding these connections could lead to a deeper understanding of the universe. The Pythagorean women also explored the role of women in society and advocated for gender equality and the empowerment of women.

Furthermore, the Pythagorean women were known for their contributions to music and mathematics. They studied the relationship between numbers and music, and believed that music could be used to achieve harmony and balance in the world. The Pythagorean women also developed mathematical theories and algorithms that were influential in the field of geometry and astronomy.

In conclusion, the Pythagorean women were a group of remarkable female philosophers who played a significant role in the history of Pythagoreanism. Their intellectual prowess, profound insights, and contributions to various fields of philosophy have left a lasting impact on the philosophical discourse. The Pythagorean woman emerges as an expert in the feminine sphere, a well-rounded thinker, a teacher, and a philosopher. Her philosophy emphasized the unity of all things, advocated for gender equality, and made significant contributions to music and mathematics. The Pythagorean women's legacy continues to inspire and influence contemporary thinkers and scholars.

Weight: 111g
ISBN-13: 9781009011815