An exemplary and thorough study of the subject.
–Holt N. Parker, University of Cincinnati, Bryn Mawr Classical Review
A solid historical and literary account of the evidence, which will be the foundation for all future studies of the education of women in antiquity. All levels.
–Choice, March 2000
Hemelrijk's greatest contribution ... lies in her precise and comprehensive presentation of the ancient textual evidence, which allows the reader to form her own conclusions..
–Cloelia, Fall 2001
Book Description
Matrona Docta presents a unique study of the education of upper-class women in Roman society in the central period of Roman history, from the second century BC to AD 235. The author explores the place of Roman upper-class women in the world of the educated. She reconstructs their opportunities to acquire an education; the impediments they face; the level of education they could reach; and the judgement on educated women in Roman society. She examines also the role of women as patronesses of literature and learning and Roman women's writing.
Matrona Docta provides an erudite and meticulously researched analysis of educated women in Rome.