Question 1

What did Hypatia teach at Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Hypatia was a Neo-Platonist philosopher who taught philosophy and the scientific method at the University of Alexandria.

Question 2

What caused the problem between Hypatia and Archbishop Cyril?

Accepted Answer

Cyril felt that Hypatia was an obstacle to people's acceptance of Christianity and, especially, to the pagan prefect Orestes embracing the new faith.

Question 3

Was Hypatia the only female scholar at the University of Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Women were allowed to study at the University of Alexandria but Hypatia is the only female professor mentioned at the school during her time.

Question 4

Why was Hypatia's death significant?

Accepted Answer

Hypatia's death was significant because it is thought to have symbolized the end of the classical pagan belief system in Alexandria and, according to some scholars, the ancient world which then steadily embraced Christianity.

Passing of Philosophy to Religion: The Death of Hypatia

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