Ever heard of Hypathia, 4th-century mathematician and philosopher? Nicole Lepaute and Hélène Metzger, whose work revolutionized the world of science? Or Victoria Woodhull, who dared run for president of the U.S.A. when women weren't even allowed to vote yet? Greek, Italian, French, English, American, or German, these women all had one thing in common: astonishing willpower and détermination. Their lives will surprise you. Here are the stories of 18 exceptional women, from Antiquity to our own times. These profiles, each more amazing than the last, show that it takes courage, determination and willpower to be a woman in a largely misogynistic society and live the way you want to live... or just stay alive.