Review Of "The Cambridge Companion To Francis Of Assisi" Edited By M. J. P. Robson

Document Type

Book Review

Publication Date

9-1-2012

Published In

Choice

Abstract

This impressive collection of 17 essays by a strong group of contributors focuses on the life and legacy of Francis of Assisi, one of the most fascinating and appealing figures in the life of the medieval and modern church. The first eight studies display Francis's magnetic appeal by exploring features of his life from his conversion and the founding of the order to his death and canonization. The second part of the volume (chapters 9-17) focuses on his influence on the friars and on his legacy. Cogent essays modify frequent claims that after his death the purity of Francis's vision of the monastic life was compromised by a weakening of the commitment to the ideal of apostolic poverty and by a prideful emphasis on learning. The final essay reflects on the ecumenical dimensions of Francis's appeal to Christians of diverse traditions. The collection is edited by Robson (Cambridge Univ., UK), who also wrote St. Francis of Assisi: The Legend and the Life (1997) and The Franciscans in the Middle Ages (2006). Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.

Comments

This work is freely available courtesy of Choice Reviews. The review has been reproduced in full in the abstract field.

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