Stoic and Strong: The Women Shaping Stoicism and Feminism
At first glance, Stoicism and feminism might seem like two very different philosophies. One ancient and contemplative, often associated with white bearded philosophers. The other modern and vocal, born of activism and empowerment.
But here’s the truth: when brought together, Stoicism and feminism don’t compete. They amplify one another.
“Feminism isn’t about making women stronger. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” — G.D. Anderson
The Missing Women of Stoicism
While the surviving texts of ancient Stoicism were mostly penned by men, that doesn’t mean women were absent from the practice. History just didn’t preserve their voices as loudly.
We know of Porcia Catonis, daughter of Cato the Younger, who embodied Stoic courage. According to Plutarch, she was deeply educated in philosophy and famously swallowed burning coals rather than betray her principles. Extreme? Yes. But undeniably Stoic in her resolve.
We also find inspiration in Aspasia of Miletus. A brilliant philosopher, speaker, and teacher in ancient Athens. While not a Stoic by title, her role as a respected intellectual in a male dominated world mirrored many Stoic ideals: reason over emotion, clarity in speech, and moral courage. Her presence and voice helped shape the philosophical discourse that Stoicism would grow from.
Today, a new generation of female Stoics is reclaiming the space.
Writers, philosophers, and creators like Sharon Lebell, author of The Art of Living, Brittany Polat of Living in Agreement, and Nancy Sherman, who bridges Stoicism with modern psychology, are breathing life into these ancient teachings with fresh, feminine perspective.
Where Stoicism and Feminism Align
Feminism is about agency, autonomy, and the dignity of choice. So is Stoicism.
Stoicism teaches that your peace, your power, and your virtue come from within. No one can give it to you. No one can take it from you. That resonates with every woman who’s ever been told to “calm down,” or been underestimated, silenced, or expected to conform.
Both philosophies say: Know your worth. Live by your values. Don’t let the world shake your center.
In a world that still pressures women to please, to perform, to perfect… Stoicism whispers a radical reminder:
You don’t need to control others. Just master yourself.
You don’t need to prove your worth. You already have it.
You don’t need to be everything to everyone. You just need to be aligned with your principles.
“No person has the power to have everything they want, but it is in their power not to want what they don’t have—and to cheerfully put to good use what they do have.” — Seneca
Practicing Stoicism as a Modern Woman
Being a Stoic woman today means:
Showing up calmly in the face of criticism
Choosing integrity over applause
Saying “no” without guilt
Owning your emotions without letting them own you
Living for your values, not validation
It’s about being unshakable.
It’s about discernment, knowing what’s yours to carry and what to let go of.
A Quiet Rebellion
In many ways, a Stoic woman is a quiet rebel. She doesn’t rage against the world, she transforms within it. She models composure, not as weakness, but as inner power. She speaks when it matters, and listens when it’s wise.
She stands firm not because she’s cold, but because she’s clear.
She is both soft and strong.
Both compassionate and disciplined.
Both feminist and philosopher.
There’s no contradiction between being Stoic and being feminist. In fact, the blend is revolutionary.
To the women who endure with grace, who reflect before reacting, who live by principle instead of praise, you are already practicing Stoicism.