Hypatia of Alexandria as a Victim of the Conflict between Ecclesiastical (Cyril) and Secular (Orestes) Authority in the Light of Selected Sources (5th–7th Centuries)
Maria Piechocka-Kłos
University of Warmia and Mazury in OlsztynAbstract
This paper attempts to reconstruct the circumstances leading to the tragic death of Hypatia of Alexandria. The analysis focuses on identifying the perpetrators of the attack, their motives, and considering the extent to which Cyril can be held responsible for this event. Particular attention is paid to presenting Hypatia as a victim of the tense dispute between the ecclesiastical authorities, represented by Cyril, and the secular administration, led by Orestes. The events described took place in Alexandria at the beginning of the 5th century. The first part recalls the figure of Hypatia in relation to her curriculum vitae, as well as her scientific, teaching, social and political activities; the second part reconstructs the causes, course and consequences of the
conflict between Cyril and Orestes and its impact on Hypatia’s life; and the third and final part presents the last day of the philosopher’s life ending in her tragic death. In this study, in order to present the analysed issue, selected ancient authors (5th–7th centuries) and excerpts from their works, mainly of a historical nature, were cited, including Socrates Scholasticus, John of Nicaea, Damascius, Philostorgius, John of Malalas, and Hesychius.
Keywords:
Hypatia of Alexandria, philosophy, Cyril's conflict with Orestes, Alexandria, Christianity, ancient historyReferences
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University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn
