Confronting the Wolf

IN 1230, following the conclusion of the Franciscan Order’s General Chapter at the Portiuncula chapel near Assisi, Anthony returned to Padua. Previously, he had served as the Provincial of Romagna, a province that included parts of northern Italy, and had represented his fellow friars in Rome, advocating for their needs before Pope Gregory IX. Weary from these responsibilities, he was nonetheless relieved to finally return home with fewer formal duties. However, his work as both “apostle to the people” and “apostle to his brothers” still demanded much from him, especially given his declining health.

Ezzelino da Romano

It was not long after his return to Padua that Anthony encountered one of the greatest challenges of his ministry. This time, he would confront a tyrant notorious for his cruelty: Ezzelino III da Romano (1194-1259). Known for his ruthless rule over Verona, Ezzelino had held power since 1226, gaining a reputation as a merciless “wolf.” He was no mere city leader, but was infamous for the violent way he exerted control, and his crimes included exploitation, oppression, kidnapping, and even alliances with heretical groups.

Ezzelino’s power extended beyond Verona, and his alliance with Emperor Frederick II made him a key figure among the Ghibelline forces, a faction known for opposing the papacy. Given Anthony’s role as an advocate for justice and the Church, it was inevitable that he would eventually come into conflict with Ezzelino. The 13th century sources, often silent on this matter, speak of Ezzelino’s reputation as a bloodthirsty ruler whose influence had grown so wide that he posed a direct threat to the region. In his mission to uplift and protect the common people, Anthony would soon find himself facing this formidable foe.

Rizzardo of San Bonifacio

On May 30, 1230, Ezzelino captured one of his political rivals, Rizzardo, Count of San Bonifacio. Rizzardo, a leader within the Guelph faction, represented a threat to Ezzelino’s influence, and his capture marked a significant victory for Ezzelino’s forces. Shortly after Anthony’s return, Padua’s nobility and Rizzardo’s allies, desperate to secure the count’s release, sought him out. Recognizing Anthony’s influence, they saw him as the one figure who might be able to negotiate with Ezzelino. At their request, Anthony agreed to intervene. Though weary from his travels, he took on the mission, embarking on the dangerous journey to Verona to confront Ezzelino directly.

Before the tyrant

Upon his arrival in Verona, Anthony found himself face-to-face with one of the most feared men in northern Italy. Ezzelino’s reputation for cruelty was well known, and many who opposed him had been dealt with brutally. But Anthony, driven by a sense of justice and compassion, confronted Ezzelino without fear. He warned the tyrant of a vision in which he saw Ezzelino condemned to hell unless he repented and released the count and other prisoners. It was a bold appeal to both Ezzelino’s conscience and his fear.

Some accounts suggest that Anthony’s words briefly struck a chord with Ezzelino, who seemed moved by the friar’s warnings. These sources describe how Ezzelino allegedly confessed his sins before the assembled court, showing a rare moment of vulnerability in the face of Anthony’s appeal. However, historian Father Sophronius Clasen, an expert on Anthony, advises caution with such reports. According to Clasen, “The tendency to surround Saint Anthony with miracles is so strong that even his failures were turned into miracles by the faithful.” The people’s devotion often embellished even the moments of Anthony’s ministry that were less than successful.

Rolandino of Padua

Clasen’s analysis is backed by the work of historian Rolandino of Padua, a contemporary of Anthony, who offers a more grounded account of the confrontation. According to Rolandino, Anthony’s intervention and devout prayers ultimately failed to secure Rizzardo’s release. Instead of triumph, Anthony’s encounter with Ezzelino ended in disappointment, leaving the saint deeply disheartened. In the face of this setback, he retreated from public view, taking time for solitude and reflection. Rolandino commented this failure with the words, “But prayers, even though devout, cannot produce fruit where there is not even a shred of love.” This insight into Anthony’s human side reveals a moment when he, too, felt the limitations of his influence.

Rolandino’s account also helps explain why certain sources, like the Assidua, remain silent about this incident. For those chronicling the life of a saint, any tale of failure might seem incongruous with the image they sought to present. By leaving out these challenges, they could avoid tarnishing Anthony’s idealized reputation. However, it is precisely this story that sheds light on Anthony’s humanity and courage.

All too human

A saint who only experiences victories may seem distant and unrelatable. Anthony’s failed attempt to save the count depicts him as a courageous friar willing to confront tyranny for the sake of justice, regardless of personal risk. The failure doesn’t detract from his legacy; rather, it enriches it, showing that his dedication went beyond success or failure. In facing the limits of his power, he demonstrates a profound humanity.

This moment of defeat also highlights the reality of Anthony’s mission. He was willing to take on the hardest tasks and face great obstacles, despite not always succeeding. His temporary retreat into solitude reveals a man who felt deeply, who reflected on his efforts and grappled with disappointment. His brief withdrawal from public life after confronting Ezzelino allowed him to process the experience. But rather than let it define him, he emerged renewed, returning to Padua with even greater resolve.

Return to Padua

When Anthony re-emerged in Padua, he resumed his work with renewed vigor. Though he had been unsuccessful in securing Rizzardo’s release, this setback underscored his commitment to justice. The failure served as a powerful reminder of the challenges that lay on his path, further strengthening his dedication to serve those in need.

In the end, Anthony’s encounter with Ezzelino stands as a testament to his courage and humanity. Despite facing one of the most feared men in northern Italy, he risked his life to advocate for the oppressed. This episode is not memorable because Anthony triumphed, but because he was willing to challenge injustice, even when the odds were against him.

This episode serves as a reminder that even saints experience setbacks. Anthony’s courage in confronting his limitations and continuing in his mission despite them offers encouragement for those who face moments of doubt or defeat. His return to Padua’s public squares, preaching with renewed energy, embodies the resilience of a man who understood that true strength lies not in never failing, but in rising again each time.

Anthony’s life, marked by both victories and setbacks, offers a timeless example of courage, humility, and unwavering faith. His willingness to risk everything for justice, even in the face of failure, makes his legacy not only one of strength, but also one of profound empathy. His humanity becomes a source of inspiration, reminding us that even the most revered saints faced challenges –and in doing so, revealed the depth of their faith and dedication to a higher purpose.