Theano of Crotone is associated with several writings attributed to her, though many scholars consider their authorship uncertain. She played a role in discussions of Pythagorean philosophy, especially concerning the importance of numbers and their relation to the natural world. After the death of Pythagoras, she is believed to have led the Pythagorean school. She contributed to the ideas related to the Golden Ratio φ, phi, along with physics, medicine, and cosmology, while also promoting the education of women.

She frequently appears in historical reconstructions and classical artworks. Some scholars identify her as a figure in The School of Athens by Raphael, depicted near Pythagoras. She likely continued her intellectual work until her death.