Bassi, Laura (1711–1778)
Bassi, Laura (1711–1778)
Italian anatomist, natural philosopher, and professor of physics at the University of Bologna. Born Laura Maria Caterina Bassi in Bologna, Italy, in 1711; died in 1778; awarded Ph.D. from University of Bologna, 1731 or 1732; married Dr. Giuseppe Veratti (a physician and professor), in 1738; children: 12.
Renowned as a scholar, Laura Bassi held a public disputation on philosophy, at age 21, and received, among many honors, a doctor's degree from the University of Bologna, where she continued studies, lectured, and was eventually appointed to the chair of physics. She married a physician and fellow professor, Dr. Giuseppe Veratti, in 1738 and had 12 children.
Bassi published two Latin dissertations but was noted more for teaching than research. Acquainted with classical, French, and Italian literature, she held membership in a number of literary societies and corresponded with many eminent European intellectuals, including Voltaire, for whom she secured membership in the Accademia. She was known as a deeply religious woman of "good character" and gave generously to the poor. A medal in her honor was coined by the Senate of Bologna.