Death of Saint Francis of Assisi
Saint Francis of Assisi, the revered founder of the Franciscan Order, lies on the bare ground of the Porziuncola chapel, surrounded by his closest followers. His body is weak from years of asceticism
Setting
Porziuncola chapel, a small stone chapel nestled in the Umbrian countryside near Assisi. The interior is humble, with rough-hewn walls and a simple wooden altar. The chapel is dimly lit, and the air is thick with the scent of candle wax and incense. Outside, the autumn evening is cool and quiet, with the rustling of leaves and distant chirping of crickets.
Characters
Saint Francis of Assisi
primary
A gaunt man in his mid-40s with sunken cheeks and a weathered face framed by a short, untrimmed beard. His once-strong frame is now emaciated from years of asceticism and recent illness, with visible stigmata wounds on his hands. His dark eyes retain their characteristic intensity despite physical weakness.
Brother Leo
primary
A lean man in his late 30s with sun-weathered skin and deep-set brown eyes that reflect both wisdom and sorrow. His dark brown hair is tonsured in the Franciscan style, with a prominent bald spot on the crown. His hands, clasped in prayer, are rough from years of manual labor, with dirt permanently etched into the creases. A long, straight nose and thin lips give him an ascetic appearance.
Brother Elias
secondary
A tall, gaunt man in his late 40s with sharp facial features and deep-set eyes that seem to constantly assess his surroundings. His tonsured head reveals streaks of gray in his remaining dark hair, and his hands are large with prominent veins, suggesting both manual labor and scholarly pursuits.
Friar Bernard
secondary
A gaunt man in his late 50s with deep-set, sorrowful eyes and a weathered face marked by years of ascetic living. His thin gray hair is tonsured in the Franciscan style, and his hands are clasped tightly together, the knuckles white with tension.
Local Peasant Woman
background
A middle-aged woman with weathered skin from years of working in the fields, her dark hair streaked with grey and tied back in a simple braid. Her hands are rough and calloused, evidence of a life of manual labor. Her posture is slightly stooped from years of toil, but her movements are deliberate and reverent.
Dialog
Saint Francis of Assisi
Brother Leo, write... where there is darkness, let there be light... where there is despair, let there be hope...
Brother Leo
So very dear father... your words are honey to my soul...
Brother Elias
Pax et bonum. The testament should be sealed before... before the blessed transit occurs. The Order must preserve these words.
Saint Francis of Assisi
Sister Death comes kindly... sing for me, my brothers... the Canticle once more...
Brother Leo
Oh most beloved... the little birds outside still call your name...
Brother Elias
We must consider practicalities. The Minister General will need these documents when the conclave—
Saint Francis of Assisi
Enough, Brother Wolf... the lambs are feeding now...