The Function and Spirituality of Bonaventure's "Treatise" on the Miracles of St. Francis

Abstract

The collection of miracle stories appended to Bonaventure's <i>Legenda maior</i> is a succinct adaptation of Thomas of Celano's <i>Treatise on the Miracles of St. Francis</i>. As such, it could be regarded as Bonaventure's own "treatise" on Francis' miracles. Until now, little scholarly attention has been given to this collection, particularly with respect to questions surrounding the redaction of Francis' story. In an attempt to address this lack of scrutiny, this article provides a close reading of the material that Bonaventure added to Celano's <i>Treatise</i>. It concludes that one prominent function of Bonaventure's "treatise" was to defend the Franciscan order from external criticism. In addition, it briefly explores how this apologetic function is connected to a theme that was central to Bonaventure's spirituality: the crucified Christ.