Katharina's ancestry -- A period of preparation -- Cloistered years -- An open mind -- The great escape -- Luther's headache -- Katharina's choice -- The knot is tied -- The black cloister -- The Luther household -- Motherhood and children -- Joy, suffering, and crescendo love -- Gracious hostess at Luther's table talk -- Katharina's friends, faith, and nursing skills -- Illnesses, tribulations, and the death of Kate's "dearest man" -- Clinging to Christ like a burr to a dress.