Lecture on Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz
Introduction
- The lecture focuses on Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, an influential figure from Mexico's Baroque period.
- Sor Juana was a defender of women's right to education and intellectual equality with men.
- The Hispanic Society holds a significant collection of her works.
Early Life
- Born Juana Ramírez de Santillana to a Basque immigrant father and a Mexican Creole mother.
- Grew up in San Miguel de Nepantla, Mexico.
- Self-taught in reading and writing from an early age.
- Developed a love for learning; interested in various disciplines including mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, humanism, music, poetry, and theater.
Education and Early Career
- Moved to Mexico City at 16, entered the viceregal court as a lady-in-waiting.
- Recognized for intelligence and beauty.
- Entered the Convent of the Discalced Carmelites but left due to its rigorous lifestyle.
- Joined the Convent of the Order of Saint Jerome.
Life in the Convent
- The convent life allowed her to continue her studies and writing unhindered.
- Her cell was described as a hub for intellectual gatherings, supported by viceroys.
- Surrounded by books, musical instruments, and tools for astronomy.
Literary Contributions
- Composed religious poems and carols.
- Known for incorporating indigenous Nahuatl language into her works.
- Wrote a notable letter, "Respuesta a Sor Filotea de la Cruz," defending women's rights to education.
- Her collection includes works published both in Mexico and Spain.
Later Years
- Sold her library shortly before her death from typhus in 1695.
- Her decision to abandon her intellectual pursuits is still debated among scholars.
Legacy
- The Hispanic Society's collection contains numerous works by Sor Juana and other religious women from Spain's Golden Age.
- Her works continue to be studied and celebrated for their intellectual and cultural significance.
Conclusion
- Sor Juana remains a significant historical figure, celebrated for her literary genius and advocacy for women's education.
- The lecture concludes with a Christmas carol by Sor Juana.
These notes provide a summary of the key points from the lecture on Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, focusing on her life, works, and legacy.