Who was Elena Conaro?

Answer 1

Elena Cornaro Piscopia (1646 to 1684) was a remarkable woman who lived in Italy, and was probably the first woman in the world to have been awarded a PhD.

She was a noted philosopher and theologist, and her debates and discussions with the leading intellectuals of her time were famous throughout Europe.

Erena's family background was one of learning and education, and she learned mathematics, astronomy, music, science and languages from her tutors. She excelled at philosophy, theology and languages, mastering over 7 different languages.

She was also educated in music, including the harpsichord, violin and harp, as well as singing.

Piscopia was a devout catholic, who wanted to enter the Benedictine Order of Nuns, but her father refused. She secretly abided by the codes and laws of the Nuns Order throughout her life.

Piscopia's father wanted her to attend University, a rare thing for a woman in those days. She went to the University of Padua and studied theology, and held debates in front of the entire University with leading scholars of Europe.

At the age of 32 Piscopia became the first documented case of a woman being granted a PhD in the subject of philosophy. She later taught philosophy, music and mathematics at the same university.