Trace and Aura: The Recurring Lives of St. Ambrose of Milan

Patrick Boucheron, one of the foremost medievalists of our time, will present his groundbreaking work on history and memory that goes well beyond the life of this influential saint, Trace and Aura: The Recurring Lives of St. Ambrose of Milan recently translated in English and published by Other Press. There is much more to this book, however, than the captivating story of the bishop who baptized Saint Augustine in the fourth century. Trace and Aura investigates how a crucial figure from the past can return in different guises over and over again, in a city that he inspired and shaped through his beliefs and political convictions. In the process of following Ambrose’s various reincarnations, Patrick Boucheron draws compelling connections between religion, government, tyranny, the Italian commune, Milan’s yearning for autonomy, and many other aspects of this fascinating relationship between a city and its spiritual mentor who strangely seems to resist being manipulated by the needs and ambitions of those in power.

This event is co-sponsored by Columbia Maison Française and the History Department. 

RSVP here. You can also follow the discussion live on Facebook. It will also be recorded and made accessible on our website after the event.