An accessible introduction to the life of this most-venerated saint.
 
This book is an accessible biography of Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan religious order and one of the most venerated figures in Christianity. In it, Michael F. Cusato explores how Francis and his early brothers embraced a life of poverty in solidarity with the lowest ranks of society, preaching a message of justice and dignity for all. He examines how and why Francis’s vision ultimately expanded to embrace non-Christians and Muslims in particular following Francis’s celebrated encounter with the Sultan al-Malik al-Kamil in 1219. Finally, Cusato considers the clash between Francis and newer members of his Order, his reception of the stigmata, and his final years defending his vision among his own brothers, all while living as an exemplar of the gospel life.

Michael F. Cusato is a Franciscan friar and scholar-in-residence at St. Bonaventure University. He has published widely on the history of the Franciscan order during the Middle Ages.

Abbreviations
Introduction
1 The Formative Years, 1205–12
2 The Hidden Years, 1212¬–16
3 The Pivotal Years, 1216–19
4 The Years Overseas, 1219–20
5 The Years of Confrontation, 1220–21
6 The Years of Legislation, 1221–3
7 The Years of Decline, 1223–6
Epilogue

References
Further Reading
Acknowledgements
Photo Acknowledgements
Index