This three-volume project produces a translation of the extant texts of the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth centuries that present the life and writings of Francis of Assisi. It 1) provides a new and more complete publication of the early Franciscan critical texts that offer fresh translations in light of the scholarship of the past three decades; 2) provides a more manageable and accessible edition of the Franciscan texts in several volumes; 3) presents scholarly introductions, critical apparatus, and annotations to give readers biblical, historical, sociological, hagiographical, spiritual and pastoral perspectives; 4) situates the Franciscan texts within the Christian tradition and context of their day. The texts chosen represent the most important sources for studying the life and vision of Francis. The Founder includes The Anonymous of Perugia, The Legend of the Three Companions, The Assisi Compilation, The Desire of the Remembrance of a Soul by Thomas of Celano, An Umbrian Choir Legend, The Treatise on the Miracles of Saint Francis by Thomas of Celano, The Encyclical Letter of Brother Elias, The Major and Minor Legends of Bonaventure of Bagnoregno, the Sermons of Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, Related Documens. Also included are helpful introductions to each section, colored maps, extensive annotation.
