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Michael Igantieff's new book on the language and history of consolation takes us to 16th century France where Michel de Montaigne finds solace in the human body. William Hope reads.

The historian, former politician and author has written a series of essays which look at how consolation has been portrayed in history, literature, philosophy and art. In each he looks at how figures from the past have consoled and been consoled when confronted by disaster and catastrophe. Here, we encounter, Job as he shakes his fist at the heavens, demanding justice for his suffering at the hand of God, and Cicero as his code of stoicism is challenged by personal tragedy. Then it is the turn of El Greco, and the solace to be found in depictions of Paradise, and Michel de Montaigne who finds comfort in the everyday and the ordinary. Lastly, an account of Cicely Saunders who was part of a mid-twentieth century movement to re-invent the hospice, an institution that has at its centre, compassion, respect and consolation for those approaching their last days.

Michael Ignatieff is a writer, historian and former politician. he has taught and some of the world's most prestigious universities and in 2022 is the President and Rector at Central European University in Vienna.

The abridger is Penny Leicester
The producer is Elizabeth Allard