New Books in History Cynthia Paces, "Prague: The Heart of Europe" (Oxford UP, 2025)
Nov 2, 2025
Cynthia Paces, a Professor of history at the College of New Jersey, discusses her book on Prague, exploring the city’s evolution from the 10th century to today. She shares her personal ties to Prague, highlights the transformative impact of Charles IV, and reveals how the Counter-Reformation reshaped its skyline. Paces emphasizes the importance of women's contributions and personal narratives in historical accounts. For travelers, she recommends hidden gems like Visehrad and Karlštejn, along with insights into Prague's rich Jewish heritage.
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Family Roots Sparked A Career
- Cynthia Paces described her family's displacement from Prague after WWII and growing up fascinated by the region.
- She returned in 1990 for a summer school just after the revolution, which solidified her interest in studying Prague.
Medieval Sources Need Caution
- Medieval sources require cautious interpretation because chronicles and hagiographies blend fact and agenda.
- Paces learned to present medieval Prague as literature-informed history, not straightforward narrative.
Charles IV Shaped Prague's Identity
- Charles IV transformed Prague into a European center by founding the university and archbishopric.
- His patronage set the cultural and institutional shape that endures in Prague's identity today.
