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Introduction

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 November 2011

Michael J. P. Robson
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
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Summary

The young Francis of Assisi, son of a prosperous merchant, dreamed of earning fame as an intrepid and chivalrous knight, whose deeds would be praised and celebrated at home and beyond the confines of his native Umbria, spreading to the neighbouring provinces. This aspiration survived his spell as a prisoner of war in Perugia after the battle of Collestrada in November 1202 when he may have witnessed horrific deeds. On his release, his interests, manner and spirit were noticeably different. The new restlessness and growing detachment could not be explained solely by a period of incarceration as a prisoner of war. Despite this enduring sense of disorientation, the hope of becoming a bold and fearless knight persisted and led Francis to join a nobleman of Assisi who was making preparations to depart for Apulia in southern Italy, where Walter of Brienne was leading the papal militia against Markwald of Anweiler, the seneschal of the German emperor. About 1204/5 Francis set out from home and travelled as far as the neighbouring city of Spoleto, where a dream about arms and their use caused him to discard his military ambitions and return home. On his journey back to Assisi he undoubtedly pondered the ruins of his military ambitions with his ardent desire to win renown and honour. The next stage in his life was far from clear.

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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2011

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