Synopses & Reviews
Against the backdrop of 14th-century Europea time of social turmoil, outbreaks of the bubonic plague, a catastrophic war that devastated the continent, and an overall transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissancethis biography offers an entry point into the life of Catherine of Siena, an oftentimes irreverent, intense, and fiery woman. Deeply researched and based on the latest sources, this history recalls Saint Catherine, as she would later be called, as a champion of peace who cajoled and, at times, begged popes, monarchs, and ordinary citizens to do her will. Describing her sheer fortitude and personal magnetism, this absorbing account details the spiritual and political beliefs of Catherine of Siena as she attempted to restore order to a fractured Italian city-state system, campaigned Pope Gregory XI in Avignon to return the papacy to Rome, and tried to resolve the Western Schism of 1378a challenge that proved to be her ultimate test. Perfect for historians and readers of any faith or none, this compelling exploration paints a human portrait of a great mystic and spiritual teacher, who was canonized in 1461 and proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1970.
Synopsis
This biography of the great mystic and saint Catherine of Siena presents a moving, lucid portrait of the strong-minded and fiery young woman who campaigned for peace and struggled to reform the church during the turbulent 14th century, and became one of our most beloved spiritual figures.
About the Author
Don Brophy was for many years acquiring editor and managing editor for the book publisher Paulist Press. He is the author of "One Hundred Great Catholic Books" and "The Story of Catholics in America." He lives in New York City.