Juana Ines De La Cruz Sor

She chose a career over family life. She fought for a woman's right to an education. Her brilliant literary talents went largely unrecognized during her lifetime. And powerful men silenced her for her troubles. The scenario may sound familiar, but this is no 19th or 20th century feminist we're talking about. It's Sor (Sister) Juana Ines de la Cruz, a 17th century Mexican nun, poet, theologian, essayist and dramatist of secular and religious plays.

She chose a career over family life. She fought for a woman's right to an education. Her brilliant literary talents went largely unrecognized during her lifetime. And powerful men silenced her for her troubles. The scenario may sound familiar, but this is no 19th or 20th century feminist we're talking about. It's Sor (Sister) Juana Ines de la Cruz, a 17th century Mexican nun, poet, theologian, essayist and dramatist of secular and religious plays.