Émilie du Châtelet: The forgotten pioneer of the science revolution

Émilie du Châtelet: The forgotten pioneer of the science revolution

Amazing, fascinating and yet often in the shadow of her contemporaries: Émilie du Châtelet, the brilliant French mathematician, physicist and philosopher, has lived an eventful life in an era full of challenges! Born in an aristocratic parents' home, she already shows an extraordinary talent as a child, which she will later become a pioneer of female emancipation. Her story of fate ends tragically: on September 10, 1749, at the age of 42, she leaves this world, but her legacy will remain forever!

"It is certain that love for science is far less necessary for men than women." With these powerful words, Émilie du Châtelet not only demonstrates her deeply rooted passion for science, but also the fighting spirit that she needs in a society dominated by men to hear herself. Yes, in the 18th century a woman like her could expect far less than her male adversaries. But she could not be stopped by these adversity!

a life for science

Together with the famous philosopher Voltaire, she lived for 15 years at the magnificent Cirey Castle. Science experienced a renaissance in this baroque jewel, which she equipped with a huge library of more than 10,000 volumes. The castle turned into a center of knowledge - its halls became a physics laboratory! Émilie du Châtelet did not be intimidated and in 1740 published her main work "Scientific Introduction to Physics" - but anonymously, because as a woman she had to fear that her work would not be taken seriously.

Her writings brought her fame on an international level and it became a symbolic figure of female scholarship. Clear and brave voices: "I would let women participate in all human rights, especially in the spiritual." These strong words underline their tireless commitment to women's rights and their conviction that the access to know should not be a privilege of gender.

The forgotten star of the Enlightenment

In the history of the 19th century, Émilie du Châtelet is forgotten, but today she is experiencing a rediscovery! Who were the men who shaped their lives? What is the reason for your temporary disappearance from the history books? This and many other questions illuminate the WDR's time, which is supported by the renowned philosopher Ruth Edith Hagengruber and other experts.

• Émilie du Châtelet and Voltaire - a couple that revolutionized science!
• The astonishing transformation of Cley Castle to a scientific epicenter.
• Your anonymous appear and the huge effect of your works.

Now we should ask ourselves: How many other brilliant women have overlooked? Émilie du Châtelet is not just a contemporary witness - she is a revolutionary spirit that bravely fought against the conventions of her time. Your inheritance will always remain strong as a form of light of the Enlightenment and as an overwhelming fighter for knowledge - for women and men alike!