Simon of Cascia was a fourteenth-century Augustinian friar, preacher, and theologian born in Cascia, Italy. After an initial interest in the natural sciences, he joined the Order of Augustinian Hermits and dedicated his life to the study of scripture and the care of souls. Influenced by the Franciscan Angelo Clareno, he adopted an ascetic lifestyle and traveled extensively through Italian cities to preach. He was highly regarded as a spiritual advisor and counselor to both clergy and laypeople, frequently providing guidance through written letters.