History As Prophecy: Angelo Clarenos Chronicle As A Spiritual Franciscan Apocalypse

Abstract

Angelo Clareno's Chronicle of the Seven Tribulations of the Franciscan Order is undoubtedly the most famous of his works. Angelo's treatment of Francis is heavily influenced by what he takes from the so-called sources. They provide him with what he sees as the major theme in Franciscan history from Francis's time to his own, the conflict between those few brothers who attempt to follow Francis's rule and the mass of so-called Franciscans who wear the prescribed clothing and live in houses designated as Franciscan. There is much to be said for considering the chronicle a martyrology. It centers on a series of tribulations suffered by the small group within the order that has attempted to remain true to Francis's original ideal. One possible way of looking at Angelo's project is to see him as writing an apocalypse of sorts, which means more than simply indulging in apocalyptic speculation. Keywords: Angelo Clareno; Chronicle ; Leo sources; spiritual Franciscan apocalypse