Much to Francis's dismay, his early mendicant movement was marred by conflict between the "Spirituals," with their radical interpretation of extreme poverty, and those of a more liberal bent. This volume focuses on three main figures among the Spirituals, contemporaries of Francis: Giles of Assisi, Roger of Provence, and James of Milan, presenting a selection of their writings and bringing them vividly to life with insightful commentaries on their lives, works, and influence. (Publisher).