Very learned women are to be found, in the same manner as female warriors; but they are seldom or ever inventors

Very learned women are to be found, in the same manner as female warriors; but they are seldom or ever inventors

In the quote “Very learned women are to be found, in the same manner as female warriors; but they are seldom or ever inventors,” Voltaire is making a statement about the societal limitations placed on women during his time. Voltaire, a prominent French philosopher and writer of the Enlightenment period, was known for his progressive views on many social issues, including gender equality. However, even he recognized the barriers that women faced in pursuing intellectual pursuits and achieving recognition for their contributions.

During the 18th century, when Voltaire was writing, women were often denied access to education and opportunities for intellectual growth. They were expected to fulfill traditional roles as wives and mothers, and their intellectual abilities were often dismissed or ignored. While there were certainly exceptions to this rule, such as the learned women and female warriors that Voltaire mentions, they were few and far between.

The comparison between learned women and female warriors is an interesting one, as it highlights the ways in which women were able to break free from societal expectations and assert themselves in male-dominated fields. Female warriors, like Joan of Arc or Queen Boudicca, were able to defy gender norms and achieve recognition for their bravery and skill in battle. Similarly, learned women, such as writers like Mary Wollstonecraft or scientists like Marie Curie, were able to overcome societal barriers and make significant contributions to their respective fields.

However, Voltaire’s assertion that these women are “seldom or ever inventors” speaks to the larger issue of recognition and validation for women’s achievements. Even when women were able to overcome societal limitations and make significant contributions, their work was often overlooked or attributed to male counterparts. This erasure of women’s contributions to intellectual and scientific progress has been a persistent issue throughout history, and one that continues to be relevant today.

Overall, Voltaire’s quote serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in all fields, and the need to continue to challenge societal norms and expectations that limit their potential. By acknowledging the contributions of learned women and female warriors, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.