Oxford Classical Dictionary (
2021)
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Abstract
Women were involved in both practical and theoretical aspects of scientific endeavour in
the ancient world. Although the evidence is scant, it is clear that women innovated
techniques in textile manufacture, metallurgy, and medical sciences. The most extensive
engagement of women in science was in medicine, including obstetrics, gynaecology,
pharmacology, and dermatology. The evidence for this often comes from male medical
writers. Women were also involved in the manufacture of gold alloys, which interested
later alchemists. Maria of Alexandria innovated equipment and techniques while also
theorizing about chemical change. Many of the works ascribed to women in antiquity
were not written by women. However, they do indicate what sorts of sciences were taken
to be the province of women.