Gisela Weyde in 1914. (source: GMB)
“This is the end of most of my studies. A blue stocking might make a good housewife. I cannot say that I easily mistook Athena for Hera, and I am afraid I will eventually be hurting due to my spiritual hunger, but love overcomes everything," wrote Gisela Weyde in a 1929 letter.
Her sudden decision to withdraw from public and scientific life to tend to the family hearth was unexpected.
Especially in light of many years' worth of hard work with tangible results, she had within her reach what she had desired and to which she had every right - paid employment suitable for her education, skills, and enthusiasm. Although she herself did not reach this goal, she opened the door for other women.
Naivety and belief in human goodness
She was the first woman to study classical archaeology in Vienna, and the first female art historian in Slovakia. She was the first to hold a lecture for young people in a museum and tried to democratize art in every possible way.
In just a few years she wrote more studies than many others could in a lifetime. She promoted popular science associations and tried to get into official institutions. However, they always preferred men instead of her. This is also why Gisela Weyde was forgotten for so long.
