Herman of Tournai, The Miracles of St. Mary of Laon

This chapter examines Laon's vibrant medieval history, emphasizing its economic and religious importance and its upheavals in the early twelfth century. Herman of Tournai describes the 1112 revolt, the bishop's assassination, and the fire that devastated the city, leading to urgent restoration efforts by the clergy. Clerics embark on two unprecedented relic tours in France and England, aiming to fund the cathedral's reconstruction while witnessing miracles attributed to the Virgin Mary. Herman highlights Bishop Bartholomew's leadership in revitalizing Laon's religious and monastic communities, situating these efforts within a broader context of social and spiritual renewal. Finally, the chapter conveys how Herman blends historical narrative with devotion, portraying Laon's recovery as a testament to divine intervention and human resilience.