Women Scientists? The Representation of Women in Science in History Textbooks in Portugal

Abstract

This article discusses how the contribution of women to the history of science is portrayed in high school textbooks in Portugal. An exhaustive analysis of history textbooks revealed that the role of women in science is neglected, except for Marie Curie, who is referred several times. Portrayals of science continue to ignore the contributions of women´s work and their persistence. The role of women as (co)-authors of scientific discoveries have been erased or neglected, and the “Matilda effect” persists. Women appear in images as assistants, bodies, or consumers of the benefits of science.

Textbooks; Women scientists; History of science; Matilda effect