Armut und geistiger Aufstieg. San Francesco und Dante

This study reveals the complex interplay between artistic representation, spiritual poverty, and material wealth, particularly through the lens of San Francesco's life as depicted by Giotto and Dante. It examines how Giotto's portrayal of 'Poverty' in the Basilica of San Francesco contrasts with Dante's literary representation in the Paradiso, where San Tommaso d'Aquino's discourse deviates from the strict 'sine glossa' rule, incorporating self-commentary to clarify his hermetic style. The research highlights a tension between religious ethics and artistic vision, as Dante uses vivid topographical imagery—such as the Arno and Tevere rivers—to evoke material richness while exploring the allegorical ascent of 'Poverty' alongside Beatrice. This analysis opens a critical space for understanding how Dante's work bridges spiritual ideals with tangible cultural contexts.

Westerwelle, K. (2014). Armut und geistiger Aufstieg. San Francesco und Dante. Deutsches Dante-Jahrbuch, 87-88(1), 203–226. https://doi.org/10.1515/dante-2013-0011