Juana Inés de la Cruz
Born in Mexico and known as the "Tenth Muse," Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz defied the societal norms of her time. Instead of marriage, she chose the intellectual freedom offered by the convent, where she amassed a personal library rumored to be one of the largest in the New World.
Her insatiable curiosity led her to master multiple languages, compose music, and write extensively on theology, philosophy, and even science, all while navigating the patriarchal restrictions of the Church. She famously argued for women's right to education, a radical stance in the 17th century.
Despite her brilliance, there is absolutely no evidence, historical or even vaguely speculative, to suggest any Jewish ancestry or identity. She was a devout Catholic nun, her life entirely dedicated to the Church and her intellectual pursuits within its framework.
Her "K" score, however, is a testament to her enduring impact as a literary giant and an early advocate for intellectual freedom, regardless of gender or creed. We'll give her some serious kvell points for inspiring generations, even if she wouldn't have known what a "Jew" was outside of a very limited theological context.




