Saint Francesca Romana and Pope Eugene IV: Prophecy and Power in Roma during the Council of Basel

Abstract

Francesca Bussa dei Ponziani stands at the turn of the two councils of Constance and Basil, which strongly influenced the judgement on visionary women. Francesca’s political visions represent the brightest example of how the Birgittine and Catherinian models have been re-modelled on the basis of a new different historical context. Francesca’s solid authority allowed her to address Pope Eugene IV multiple times regarding his participation to the Council of Basel. Francesca, therefore, actively intervened within the Roman religious and political scenario.