Cambridge Companion to Francis of Assisi

Francis of Assisi (1181/82–1226) was one of the most vibrant andcolourful personalities in the Middle Ages. The life of thisremarkable reformer of the medieval Church was celebrated in art,drama, poetry, music, the new vernacular literature andarchitecture. His ideal was to enter into a restorative andenriching relationship with Jesus Christ, whom he wished to imitatein the most perfect manner, a direct and immediate goal whichcaptured the contemporary imagination. This Companion explores thelife of Francis of Assisi and his enduring legacy throughout thecenturies. The first part concentrates on his life and works whilstthe second explores the way in which his heritage influenced theapostolic activities of his followers in the century following hisdeath. This book is a must-read for students and scholars of Churchhistory, as well as medieval social and intellectual history.