Hypatia or, The history of a most beautiful, most vertuous, most learned, and every way accomplish'd lady; who was torn to pieces by the clergy of Alexandria, to gratify the pride, emulation, and cruelty of their archbishop, commonly but undeservedly styled St. Cyril

"Hypatia" by John Toland is a historical narrative that recounts the life and sorrowful end of Hypatia, a respected philosopher and mathematician in ancient Alexandria. The book focuses on her outstanding achievements and the horrifying events that led to her death at the hands of a religious group. It highlights the growing conflict between Christianity and the fading pagan philosophy of the period. Hypatia, known for both her intelligence and her beauty, received an exceptional education as the daughter of Theon, the head of the School of Alexandria, and later became a well-known teacher and philosopher. Her friendship with Orestes, the Roman governor, provoked jealousy from Bishop Cyril and his supporters, leading to a plot that resulted in Hypatia's cruel murder. This act highlights the dangerous mix of politics and religion during her time and underlines her lasting impact as a symbol of knowledge and goodness.