Catherine of Alexandria was a Christian martyr and saint, celebrated for her intelligence and eloquence. According to tradition, she was born into a noble family in Alexandria, Egypt, and became a scholar, engaging in debates with philosophers and converting many to Christianity. Her life is often dated to the early 4th century. Catherine's story culminates in her martyrdom during the reign of the Roman Emperor Maxentius. She was sentenced to death for her faith, and her legend includes miraculous events, such as surviving torture. She is venerated in both the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions, with her feast day observed on November 25.