Episode 321: St. Francis of Assisi - Chapter 1: The Problem of St. Francis

St. Francis of Assisi by G. K. Chesterton - Audio - PDF

St. Francis of Assisi - Chapter 1: The Problem of St. Francis

In Chapter 1 of St. Francis of Assisi, titled "The Problem of St. Francis," G.K. Chesterton explores the enigmatic nature of the saint, presenting him as a figure whose life defies simple categorization or explanation. Chesterton argues that St. Francis’s radical simplicity, joy, and love for all creation—qualities that seem almost otherworldly—pose a challenge to modern understanding, as they blend profound mysticism with an earthy, relatable humanity. He contrasts the romanticized, sentimental views of Francis with the stark reality of his asceticism and intense devotion, suggesting that the saint’s essence lies in a paradox: a man who renounced wealth and power yet radiated a contagious happiness rooted in his unity with God and nature. Chesterton posits that this paradox resists reduction to mere historical or psychological analysis, framing Francis as a "problem" because his life demands a poetic rather than a scientific lens to grasp its full meaning—an invitation to see the world anew through his childlike wonder and unwavering faith.