معرفی
Maria Dalle Donne (1778–1842) was the first female doctor of medicine at the University of Bologna and a pioneering academician. She directed the School of Obstetrics for four decades, professionalizing midwifery into a medical discipline while navigating societal constraints. Her academic journey began under mentors like Luigi Rodati and Tarsizio Riviera, with studies in philosophy, physics, anatomy, and obstetrics. She earned her medical degree in 1799 through a public defense at San Domenico, marking a historic milestone for women in academia.
Education:
- Trained under Luigi Rodati (botany and medicine)
- Studied philosophy with Sebastiano Canterzani
- Learned physics under Giovanni Aldini
- Studied anatomy and pathology with Gaetano Uttini
- Specialized in obstetrics under Tarsizio Riviera
Research & Contributions: Dalle Donne emphasized modern obstetric practices, including placenta circulation and fetal malformations. Her work elevated midwifery from an informal craft to a scientific field, though male dominance in medicine later marginalized her role. The School of Obstetrics, linked to the Istituto delle Scienze, utilized advanced instruments now displayed at Palazzo Poggi’s museum.
