Clare of Assisi
1194 – 1253 · Assisi (Italy)
Founder of the Poor Clares
Awaiting theological review
In one sentence
A young noblewoman who left home to follow Francis and founded a community of contemplative sisters.
Why this person matters
She was the first woman known to write a rule of life for women — approved just before she died.
Historical context
She joined Francis in 1212 and lived at San Damiano for over forty years.
Historical context
Her Rule was approved by Pope Innocent IV in 1253, two days before her death.
Key ideas
- The privilege of poverty
- Contemplating Christ as in a mirror
Why they still matter
Interpretation
The Poor Clares live in monasteries throughout the world.
Before
- Gregory the Greatc. 540 – 604
Contemporary
- Francis of Assisic. 1181 – 1226
- Dominic de Guzmánc. 1170 – 1221
After
- Albert the Greatc. 1200 – 1280
- Rule
- Letters to Agnes of Prague
- Historical context
Statements are labelled by source. Early Christian sources are named where known; dates before the 4th century are often approximate.