Living Saints

This chapter examines the phenomenon of 'living saints' (sante vive) from the medieval period through the early modern era. These charismatic figures, known for abstinence, mystical experiences, prophetic abilities, and miracles, were venerated by the people and sought by princes as spiritual advisors. Their emergence coincided with the Italian Wars (1494–1556), which threatened smaller Italian states. Inspired by Catherine of Siena, many were Dominican tertiaries or drew from the Devotio Moderna movement. After the peace of 1530 ended the wars, the appeal of this prophetic model declined, giving way to a more mystical and contemplative ideal rooted in cloistered religious life.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This chapter explores female sanctity from the medieval period through the early modern era, with a focus on the phenomenon of the “living saints” ( sante vive ). These charismatic figures, renowned for their abstinence, mystical experiences, prophetic abilities, and miracles, were venerated by the people and sought by princes as spiritual advisors, and their prophetic powers surpassed those of astrologers. The emergence of the “living saints” coincided with the Italian Wars (1494–1556), which threatened the smaller signorie of Central Italy and the Po Valley. They continued to appear after the death of Savonarola, who had championed Church reform with fiery prophetic threats. The “new Catherines,” inspired by Catherine of Siena, became voices for the reform of both secular and ecclesiastical authorities, echoing the aspirations of Savonarola. Many were Dominican tertiaries, while others drew inspiration from the Devotio Moderna , a spiritual movement spread throughout Italy by the Canons Regular of the Lateran. Following the peace of 1530, which brought an end to the wars in Italy, the appeal of this prophetic model of sanctity declined, giving way to a more mystical and contemplative ideal rooted in the cloistered religious life.