Catherine of Siena

By: Sigrid Undset

Narrated by: Sydney Penny

Sigrid Undset's Catherine of Siena is critically acclaimed as one of the best biographies of this well-known and amazing 14th-century saint. Known for her historical fiction, which won her the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1928, Undset based this factual work on primary sources, her own experiences living in Italy, and her profound understanding of the human heart.

One of the greatest novelists of the 20th century, Undset was no stranger to hagiography. Her meticulous research of medieval times, which bore such fruit in her multi-volume masterpieces Kristin Lavransdatter and The Master of Hestviken, acquainted her with some of the holy men and women produced by the Age of Faith. Their exemplary lives left a deep impression upon the author, an impression Undset credited as one of her reasons for entering the Church in 1924.

Catherine of Siena was a particular favorite of Undset, who also was a Third Order Dominican. An extraordinarily active, intelligent, and courageous woman, Catherine at an early age devoted herself to the love of God. The intensity of her prayer, sacrifice, and service to the poor won her a reputation for holiness and wisdom, and she was called upon to make peace between warring nobles. Believing that peace in Italy could be achieved only if the Pope, then living in France, returned to Rome, Catherine boldly traveled to Avignon to meet with Pope Gregory XI.

With sensitivity to the zealous love of God and man that permeated the life of Saint Catherine, Undset presents a most moving and memorable portrait of one of the greatest women of all time.

©2009 Ignatius Press (P)2019 Ignatius Press

Great, accurate, and faithful!

Such a great biography! Wonderful details and accuracy to history, extremely well researched. Most importantly it’s filled with faith and includes all the miraculous experiences and activities of Catherine’s life. Solid Catholic content as always from Ignatius Press. Undset is a literary giant and convert and we are so blessed that she gave us this treasure (which also led to her conversion, I’m told). This was a fantastic way to prepare for my trip to Rome and Siena!

The great Unset teaches the great Saint Catherine

One of the world’s greatest writers shows her skill as a spiritual theologian. Undset’s prose does justice to Catherine’s sanctity. A rare combination in all literature. Perhaps only the Seraphic Doctor, St. Bonaventure, writing about our Seraphic Patriarch, St. Francis, surpasses this masterpiece.

A beautiful book about a beautiful Saint written by a brilliant author

I had always hoped to learn more about Saint Catherine of Siena and I’m so happy that this book was my introduction to her.

The book is a delightful read; very humanizing and exciting at the same time. I highly recommend this book and any of the others that this author wrote. You will not be disappointed.

Excellent Expression of the Life of a great Saint

Sigrid Undset does a great job balancing the historical and biographical details with St Catherine's spiritual insights and letters. One of the greatest saints and spiritual doctors of the West, and thus worth reading to appreciate the powerful life she lived on earth.

Beautiful writing and good reader . My first time with Audible 👏

I loved the book ! Not being able to read well anymore , I was delighted to hear Catherine's story , walk with her in history . Very moving, uplifting, fulfilling first experience being read to! Thank you
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