Glorifying Francis Xavier’s (1506–1552) Good Deeds or Miracles? The Negotiation of Sanctity in Daniello Bartoli’s <i>Asia</i> (1653)

Abstract This essay focuses on Francis Xavier (1506–1552), the first saint of Society Jesus, canonised with its founder Ignatius Loyola in 1622, and three differing perceptions his sanctity, both within own religious order outside it. The work Alessandro Valignano gives a introduction soon after Xavier’s death, complaints about how most testimonies future were exaggerated not particularly edifying (1580s). second text is manuscript Relatio Rotae (1619), commissioned by Pope Paul V for canonisation, which contains many pages testifying to same miracles prophecies criticised. final main source treatise Asia Daniello Bartoli (1653). Ferrarese Jesuit dedicated half it life drew from multiple sources, always proud historical detachment, sobriety, discretion. examination these sources highlights all negotiations involved especially such an important period Roman Catholic Church general, Jesus particular.