A Female Apostle in Medieval Italy

This book explores the life of Clare of Rimini, a complex figure in medieval Italy, detailing her struggles and triumphs in a turbulent society.

This book centers on the remarkable life of Clare of Rimini, a woman who lived during a tumultuous period in medieval Italy. Clare's story is preserved in the Life of the Blessed Clare of Rimini, a text composed by an anonymous Franciscan. This work is notable for being the earliest known saint's life originally written in Italian, and it provides a unique glimpse into Clare's life while she was still living. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a politically charged and religiously complex environment, detailing her experiences as a twice-married, twice-widowed, and twice-exiled individual.

Clare's quest for a life of solitary self-denial led her to reside in a roofless cell within the ruins of Rimini's Roman walls. Despite her intentions, she faced opposition from local church authorities who labeled her a demonic threat. Yet, she also garnered support from influential figures, which enabled her to establish a community of like-minded women. Her journey took her to significant cities like Assisi, Urbino, and Venice, where she served as a teacher and preacher, navigating the challenges posed by her spiritual daughters.

A Female Apostle in Medieval Italy brings this captivating text to modern readers for the first time in English translation. Each chapter offers insights into various aspects of medieval society, from political power dynamics to gender roles and religious transformations. Scholars and translators Jacques Dalarun, Sean L. Field, and Valerio Cappozzo guide readers through Clare's life, providing a rich context that illuminates the complexities of urban life in medieval Italy.