A renowned Franco-Greek philologist, author, and scholar who deciphered ancient Greek texts, shedding light on the culture and society of ancient Greece. Her work has greatly advanced the field of classical studies.
Jacqueline de Romilly, a renowned French philologist, and classical scholar, is celebrated for her groundbreaking work on ancient Greek culture and language, particularly on the historian Thucydides. Her extensive research and publications have made her a leading authority in her field, earning her a prestigious position as the first woman nominated to the Collège de France and the second woman to enter the Académie française.
Born on March 26, 1913, in Chartres, France, de Romilly demonstrated exceptional academic prowess from an early age. She was the first female to qualify for a prize in the Concours général, winning first prize in Latin to French translation and second prize in Ancient Greek in 1930.
De Romilly's academic excellence continued as she prepared for the École Normale Supérieure at the Lycée Louis-le-Grand. She entered the class of 1933 of the ENS Ulm and later passed the agrégation in Classics in 1936. However, during World War II, the Vichy government suspended her from her teaching duties due to her Jewish ancestry. Undeterred, she went on to earn her doctorate in letters from the University of Paris in 1947, publishing her thesis as Thucydide et l'impérialisme athénien, which was later translated into English as Thucydides and Athenian Imperialism.
De Romilly's academic career spanned several decades, during which she held various teaching positions at Lille University and the Sorbonne. She was eventually promoted to the chair of Greek and the development of moral and political thought at the Collège de France, becoming the first woman to occupy this prestigious position.
Throughout her career, de Romilly published numerous works on Greek philosophy, language, and literature, with a particular focus on Thucydides. Her publications include:
De Romilly's contributions to classical scholarship were recognized with several honors and awards, including:
Jacqueline de Romilly's pioneering work has left an indelible mark on the field of classical scholarship. Her dedication to the study of ancient Greek culture and language has inspired subsequent generations of scholars, and her legacy continues to shape our understanding of Thucydides and Athenian imperialism.
By breaking down barriers and pushing boundaries, de Romilly has paved the way for future generations of women in academia, solidifying her place as one of the most influential classical scholars of the 20th century.
"La vérité historique est peut-être la plus difficile à atteindre, mais c'est également la plus précieuse."
Translated to English, this quote reads: "Historical truth may be the most difficult to achieve, but it is also the most valuable."
95 Years Old
A pioneer of poststructuralism, deconstructing traditional notions of meaning and challenging Western philosophy's core assumptions. His work redefined the way we think about language, culture, and identity.
99 Years Old
A French historian and philosopher who critiqued power structures and social norms, arguing that knowledge and truth are shaped by those in power. He's known for his concepts of power, discipline, and surveillance.
Born in 1915
A French philosopher, theorist, and critic who challenged traditional notions of culture, literature, and identity through his influential writings on semiotics, mythology, and structuralism. He's most known for his critical theories on modern society and culture.
Born in 1909
A French philosopher and mystic who merged spirituality with social activism, advocating for the rights of the working class and promoting a sense of compassion and empathy. Her philosophical ideas continue to influence modern thought on morality, politics, and spirituality.
94 Years Old
A pioneer of French New Wave cinema, known for experimental and provocative films that challenged traditional narrative structures and explored themes of politics, philosophy, and social commentary.
