Saints: Men and Women of Exceptional Faith

A detailed chronological analysis of sainthood, from its origins in the Holy Land to the processes of canonization and beatification. What does it mean to be a saint and what does it take to become one? Who are the most important and inspirational saints? How do modern-day saints differ from those living centuries ago? Jacques Duquesne answers these questions, exploring the lives and significance of the individuals who had an impact on the Israeli people in the Old Testament or who were instrumental in spreading the Christian message in the New Testament and beyond. Duquesne demystifies the notions of sainthood, martyrdom, beatification, and canonization, placing the role of saints into its wider historical and social context and examining changing attitudes towards saints over the centuries. The work begins with a study of the first saints, such as the Apostles, Lazarus, or Gabriel the Archangel, and the first martyrs. The second part explores the lives of saints from the fourth to the twelfth centuries, including members of the clergy as well as kings and laymen―from Edward the Confessor to Alfred the Great. In the third section, the author focuses on the thirteenth century onwards, examining the portrayal and exploitation of sainthood in hagiographies and other edifying literature, and the redefinition of canonization implemented by the Catholic reformation. He includes entries on Joan of Arc, Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II, and Martin Luther King. Through a series of fascinating portraits, illustrated by images from throughout the history of art, this work recounts the inspirational stories and achievements of those who have been bestowed with the highest honor in the Christian church.