In ancient Greece, women were barred from studying medicine for many years—until one courageous individual defied the law. Born around 300 BC, Agnodice was determined to become a physician. She disguised herself as a man by cutting her hair short and donning men’s clothing to enroll in the prestigious medical school in Alexandria. After completing her studies, she returned to Athens and one day, while walking through the city, heard the cries of a woman in labor. The woman, suffering greatly, refused Agnodice’s assistance, believing her to be a man. To gain the woman’s trust, Agnodice discreetly revealed her true identity as a woman and successfully delivered the baby.
Word of Agnodice’s skill spread rapidly among the women of Athens, and soon, many sought her care. The male doctors, envious of her growing popularity, accused Agnodice—whom they still believed to be a man—of seducing her female patients. Brought to trial on these charges, Agnodice boldly revealed her true identity once again, but instead of vindication, she faced a death sentence for the crime of studying and practicing medicine as a woman.
Outraged by the verdict, the women of Athens rose up in revolt, led by the wives of the very judges who had condemned Agnodice. Some declared that they would follow Agnodice to her death if the sentence was carried out. Overwhelmed by the public outcry and the defiance of their own wives, the judges relented, lifting the death sentence. As a result, the law was changed, allowing women to practice medicine—albeit only for treating other women.
Agnodice thus became a trailblazer in history, recognized as the first female doctor, physician, and gynecologist in Greece. A plaque depicting her at work, found in Ostia, Italy, stands as a testament to her courage and the groundbreaking role she played in the history of medicine.
