55 pages • 1 hour read
The Art of Courtly Love
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Book Brief
218
Book • Nonfiction
France • 12th century
1186
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Art of Courtly Love by Andreas Capellanus, composed between 1186 and 1190, explores the concept of love through a didactic dialogue with a man named Walter who seeks advice on love. The text examines love's nature, its proper pursuit among the upper and middle classes, how to provoke and sustain it, behaviors that increase or diminish it, and ultimately argues against the pursuit of love by highlighting the inherent flaws in women's natures and the associated moral and spiritual dangers. The book contains discussions about extramarital affairs and critiques of various social classes and clergy.
Romantic
Contemplative
Informative
Nostalgic
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Art of Courtly Love by Andreas Capellanus is an intriguing medieval text that explores the rules and nuances of love. Critics praise its historical significance and detailed insights into courtly culture. However, some readers find its outdated views on gender roles challenging. Its blend of satire and earnest advice provides a unique glimpse into past romantic ideals.
Who Should Read The Art of Courtly Love?
Readers who enjoy The Art of Courtly Love by Andreas Capellanus typically appreciate medieval literature and philosophy, exploring themes of romance and societal norms. Comparable to fans of The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer and The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, they revel in historical texts that delve into human relationships and social constructs.
777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Walter
Walter
A nobleman possibly invented by Andreas, portrayed as seeking advice on love despite his ambiguous real-world identity.
Middle-Class Man
Middle-Class Man
A character in several dialogues who argues that nobility is based on actions and character, not birth, in his pursuit of love from women of various classes.
Middle-Class Woman
Middle-Class Woman
A character appearing in multiple dialogues, where she navigates social rules and potential reputational risks in love affairs.
Simple Nobleman
Simple Nobleman
Participates in dialogues addressing his pursuit of love across class lines, including his encounter with social and philosophical objections to love.
Simple Noblewoman
Simple Noblewoman
Appears in several dialogues where she is portrayed as discerning and skeptical of romantic advances due to social and personal beliefs.
Higher Nobleman
Higher Nobleman
Engages in philosophical and moral discussions on love and relationships, demonstrating erudition and wit across different dialogues.
Higher Noblewoman
Higher Noblewoman
Engages in dialogues focusing on her knowledge and breeding, providing advice, and exploring complex themes of love and social status.
218
Book • Nonfiction
France • 12th century
1186
Adult
18+ years
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