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On this noble eternally whirling wheel, this moving firmament of sun, moon, and stars, you placed your faith, with your feet tied to the rack, you dared chance and torturers joyfully yet among enemies--so strong were you in your journey. Iron spikes opened your heart, when flattery, threats failed to make you flinch or bend--scorn and anger were your means, and you found peace in fierce wild argument, in opposing. Now you sit on that mountain where God gave us His laws, and nourishes His children. Catherine, if your passion made so many believe, pray for me to God for your strength, your faith. |
An image of the Italian text from Visconti's 1840 edition |
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Notes: From V CXVII:277. See also B S1:122:146; MS's V2 (Ve2); Valgrisi 123. A sonnet meditating St. Catherine of Alexandria. See JCJMetford, The Dictionary of Christian Lore and Legend and Jacobus Voragine, Golden Legend. Key |
