Hildegard has often been described as a “polymath”–which, as I found out, means a person with wide-ranging knowledge and learning (which may or may not include math itself). She lived from 1098 to 1179 in what is present-day Germany, and was one of the most educated people of her day and time. Hildegard, in Butler’s words, early on grasped:

the frenzy which possesses a great part of mankind in the world, by what springs they are moved, how in pursuit  of empty imaginary honour or profit they are driven into the most laborious and hazardous attempts, how easily they swallow the most bitter and poisonous pills when they are gilt over by ambition or avarice, how eagerly they hunt after the troubles of worldly greatness, and basely adore the nothings of this life.

Hildegard recognized fully the pointlessness of chasing after fame, money, and approval. Yet note: Hildegard was a woman who dared to point out to men the pointlessness of much of their endeavors! And as if that weren’t enough, Hildegard had heavenly visions that she spoke and wrote of!

Well, this seemed a bridge too far for the Guys! The Church Powers went to examine Hildegard and test her visions. Lo, almost despite themselves, they found themselves having to declare her to be a true prophet and a holy and gifted woman! But, as the British might say, it was “not all beer and skittles” for women, because the Church Guys made clear that–most likely–Hildegard should be regarded as a “one-off.” Here’s how Butler worded their admonition to others (read: other women):

It belongs only to God to vouchsafe to certain souls such favours; which are to us more a subject of admiration than of edification. For anyone to fall into foolish desires of walking in such wonderful ways, is a certain mark of pride and presumption and a dangerous illusion. Simplicity and humility is [sic] the character of true piety, which aims not at extraordinary gifts above itself.

All of this is code for women (and some men, perhaps), saying, “Now don’t YOU go thinking that you should aspire to be like Hildegard!! That would be prideful and presumptuous and wrong! We’ll allow that this one very specific, special woman was blessed, but do not EVER think you could become another Hildegard”

As if God would be displeased with a thousand or even a hundred thousand Hildegards!!