The Contrast of Wealth and Poverty at St. Francis' Church

The text presents a profound examination of religious hypocrisy through the juxtaposition of magnificent church architecture and human suffering. The three-tiered church complex, built to honor St. Francis, serves as a stark backdrop to a disabled beggar's presence, creating a powerful commentary on institutional religion's departure from its foundational values.

Quote: "three tiers of churches" contrasted with the "pitiful beggar"

Highlight: The "rush of tourists" transforms a sacred space into a mere tourist attraction, diminishing its spiritual significance.

Example: The metaphor of "hands on backwards" vividly illustrates the beggar's physical deformities while highlighting society's tendency to turn its back on the suffering.

Vocabulary: "Brother" - A term emphasizing both religious connection and human kinship, used ironically to highlight the disconnect between Christian ideals and practice.

Definition: Juxtaposition - The technique of placing contrasting elements side by side to create dramatic effect, here used to highlight the gap between religious wealth and human poverty.

The imagery of "sawdust running out" serves as a powerful metaphor for the beggar's diminishing humanity in the eyes of society, while the reference to St. Francis's communion with birds emphasizes the saint's universal compassion in contrast to modern religious practice.