Studying the Life of Saint Francis: A Beginner's Workbook

There has never been a richer time for Franciscan studies than now, thanks in great part to the publication of Francis of Assisi: Early Documents (FA:ED) in 2002. Hugo’s workbook is a proven resource that has guided people at all academic levels through a study of the life and writings of Saint Francis using primary sources in translation. This Second Edition is a thorough revision that is totally compatible with FA:ED. It also includes new scholarship and new bibliographic references. More than half the worksheets of the previous edition have been revised, and others have been added.
The worksheets can be done by individuals or in groups or seminars. General readers will enjoy learning about Saint Francis and how hagiography shaped the public stories of medieval saints. Formation directors who teach the life and writings of Saint Francis should not be without this extraordinary sourcebook with its readymade lesson plans and insightful commentaries.

A Beginner’s Workbook is an invaluable guide … Br. Bill Hugo takes pains not to interject his own person between the voyager and St. Francis. Rather, he provides the tools and maps out a route for one to discover for her/himself the person of Francis. A Beginner’s Workbook is a further gift to the flowering of the Franciscan charism in our world.
Br. John Corriveau, OFM,Cap.
Bishop of Nelson

Spanning more than a century (1220s to 1330s) this is a priceless “user’s manual” for engaging the abundant – and sometimes confusing – early literature about St. Francis. I have used the earlier edition of this book with great satisfaction, and look forward to using the “new and improved” version in the coming years. Studying the Life of St. Francis does for Franciscan sources what a good commentary does in helping us understand Biblical texts.
William J. Short, OFM
Co-Editor, Francis of Assisi: Early Documents