Crispin: The Cross of Lead

In 1377, in Stratford, England, a boy known only as "Asta’s son" loses his mother. Following her burial, a priest reveals to the boy that his baptismal name is Crispin. Soon afterward the priest is murdered, and Crispin is accused of the crime. His cottage is burned down, and he is forced to flee. On the road, he encounters Bear, a juggler who enslaves him. For a master, Bear acts strangely—he encourages Crispin to think for himself.