Watch No Ordinary Women

No Ordinary Women is a documentary series presented by Dr. Helen Castor that features some of the most remarkable women in history. The series explores the lives of these women who defied societal norms and expectations to become influential figures in their respective fields. The show dives deep into the untold stories of these women, revealing their struggles and triumphs, and how they overcame immense obstacles to make a lasting impact on the world.

Throughout the series, Dr. Castor takes the viewers on a journey through time, showcasing the lives of eight extraordinary women who fought against the odds to achieve greatness. She begins by highlighting the life of Joan of Arc, the French heroine who led the French army to victory against the English in the Hundred Years War. We see how Joan of Arc was just a teenager when she started hearing voices that she believed were divine instructions to lead France to victory. Dr. Castor delves into the backstory of Joan of Arc, revealing how she navigated a male-dominated world to become a prominent military leader.

The series then moves on to discuss the life of Margaret Cavendish, an English aristocrat and a prolific writer, who was one of the few women to publish books in the 17th century. Dr. Castor explores how Margaret Cavendish challenged society's expectations of women at that time, as well as the difficulties she faced as a writer in a world dominated by men. We see how Margaret's works, which included poetry, philosophy, and even science fiction, were groundbreaking in their time and had a significant impact on the literary community.

Next, the show shines a spotlight on Ada Lovelace, a 19th-century mathematician who is known as the world's first computer programmer. Dr. Castor delves into Ada's fascinating life, from her unconventional upbringing to her groundbreaking work with Charles Babbage on the Analytical Engine. We see how Ada's visionary ideas laid the foundation for modern computing, and how her legacy continues to inspire women in STEM fields today.

The series also features the lives of women who have made significant contributions in the arts. Dr. Castor explores the stories of Artemisia Gentileschi, a Baroque painter who challenged gender roles in the male-dominated art world of the 17th century, and Virginia Woolf, a pivotal figure in the modernist movement who revolutionized the literary landscape with her innovative works.

In addition to these trailblazing women, the show also highlights the stories of several unsung heroes, including Ching Shih, a pirate queen who commanded one of the most powerful pirate fleets in history, and Catherine of Siena, a 14th-century mystic who played a prominent role in the church's political and religious affairs.

Throughout the series, Dr. Castor provides insightful commentary on the lives of these women, drawing on her extensive knowledge of history to shed light on their significant contributions. She describes how these women defied societal norms and expectations, and how they persevered even in the face of adversity.

The production values of No Ordinary Women are top-notch, with stunning reenactments, striking visuals, and a captivating score. The show masterfully blends historical accuracy with a compelling narrative, making it both informative and entertaining. The stories of the women featured in the series are sure to inspire and captivate viewers, as they offer a glimpse into the lives of remarkable women who made a lasting impact on the world.

Overall, No Ordinary Women is an exceptional documentary series that celebrates the lives and legacies of women who broke through barriers to achieve greatness. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, women's studies, or inspiring stories of resilience and perseverance. Dr. Helen Castor's brilliant presentation and the exceptional storytelling make this series a true masterpiece that should not be missed.

No Ordinary Women is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on May 21, 2015.