Francis of Assisi and His World

Lion Histories

by Mark Galli

Francis of Assisi is one of the world's most beloved and popular religious figures--and also one of the most misrepresented. Such is the assertion of Mark Galli, who in this IVP Histories volume strips away the modern gloss in order to discover the real man in his real physical, political, and social context. Writing with lively and engaging style, Galli traces the fascinating adventure of Francis's life, from his hedonistic youth to his emergence as a Christian leader of outstanding influence and passion. The saint revealed here is not the bland, romanticized free spirit of popular misconception, but a complex and contentious man who combined an irradiated mysticism with a very practical Christian commitment and, above all, sought to glorify God as Creator. Francis of Assisi and His World is a "must-read," both for the inspiring story it tells and for the beauty of its art and illustration.

Genres: Biography, History, Church History, Christian, Christianity

190 pages, Paperback

First published August 8, 2002

Reviews

[Randy Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Clearly there is much to be inspired by in the life of St. Francis. No one could ever question his passion and commitment to the Lord. He was certainly “all in” and then some. Reading this at times made my own life with God seemed timid and hesitant. But there’s a quote on page 100 which possibly reveals what was driving Francis so hard. “Obedience, poverty, chastity, prayer, loyalty and all the rest were means by which his brothers could atone for their defilement, conquer temptation and give themselves completely to God.”
There is a lot in this statement but to break it down into the three things listed. These things can certainly be ways “to giving yourself completely to God” and to a lesser degree “conquering temptation” (a better way would include the Holy Spirit in the process) BUT, no matter how sincere or passionate, this is not a way to find atonement with God. Placing your faith in Christ and his finished work on the cross and resurrection is the only way to find atonement with God. One verse among literally hundreds is Galatians 2:16b “For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law.” It’s sad to me that someone with such determination and passion and desire to be right with God was not guided better into the so much better way of The Gospel. This book makes it seem that Francis literally killed himself trying to be right with God in this way. Too bad, because with his obvious charisma and passion he could done so much to free people with the freedom of the actual Gospel.

[Derek Winterburn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a brilliant introduction to Francis. It is strong on the historical and cultural background to Francis; there are plentiful photographs that convey the times very well.

Galli writes very sympathetically about the Francis who having experienced personal transformation by Christ, set about trying to change the Church and its people. He has less to say about, and is not entirely sympathetic towards Francis the environmentalist or peacenik. Galli's Francis is a charismatic oddball who was completely useless at creating a sustainable movement. It is a picture of someone who was totally dedicated to being as Christlike as possible. He is not gullible, believing every tale told about Francis, but creates a vivid portrait of an extraordinary man.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have never read a biography for Francis of Assisi prior to this one. It is excellently written and provided a new appreciation for the Catholic Christian faith.

[Ajay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

[Gideon Yutzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Presents a picture of Francis that is realistic enough to keep you from glossing over the weird parts of his life and inspirational enough to learn from him and emulate him.

[Lesley Turek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read this for a Western Civ class and thought it would be horribly boring--I was wrong! It is quite informative about the real Francis--not just the myths and feel-good stories but his life as documented by his peers and followers. The author is Protestant but the book centers on Francis' love of his faith and the Catholic Church.

[Jacob Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful introductory biography by the always readable Mark Galli, this volume really captures the life of Francis (carefully distinguishing fact from legend) and does particularly well at conveying helpful details of medieval European life.

[Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good primer on this Saint. Very inspirational.