Also in this part of the narthex are pictured three other "Latin Doctors of the Church," called "doctors" because of their profound and scholarly teachings, and "Latin" because they wrote in Latin.
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St. Jerome, who translated the Bible into Latin from the original languages, is depicted holding a book with the opening words of his translation ("In the beginning God created..."). An old tradition, recalled in this panel, tells of how he befriended a wounded lion, which thereafter became his companion. |
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St. Ambrose, who became bishop of Milan, insisted that the emperor was not above the Church, but part of it. The beehive represents his eloquence. Behind it are knotted scourges symbolizing the penance he once imposed on a sinful emperor. |
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St. Gregory the Great was pope when Italy was in chaos. His firmness and strength of character, tempered by his gentleness and clarity, enabled him to rescue Italy from this. The dove in the panel is a sign of his gentleness. The base of the church is carved with musical notes, recalling his reformation of church music (Gregorian chant).
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