‘Not my pupil, but an expert’: Lady Ambrosiaster Marcella
Abstract
This article suggests that the anonymous fourth-century theologian known today as Ambrosiaster was the Roman aristocrat Marcella, of the gens Caeonia. The context of communities for celibate women is presented, with their academic emphasis on Scriptural knowledge and wide theological reading. The textual relationship between Ambrosiaster and Jerome is investigated, showing both scholarly interaction and live disagreement; this echoes the relationship between Jerome and Marcella, a well-known teacher and scholar of her day.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Biblical Studies and Interpretation
Augustinian Studies and Theology
Medieval Literature and History
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal for Late Antique Religion and Culture
- Volume
- 19
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 55–79
- Publication date
- 7 February 2026
- Language
- EN