The Letters Of Abelard And Heloise

The Letters of Abelard and Heloise tells the story of two 12th-century French scholars and lovers. The tragic ending of their love affair leads both to take religious vows, one entering a convent and the other, a monastery. Nearly a decade after their separation, the two reconnect and begin to correspond through letters. Their letters reveal that Abelard has found peace as a monk, even though he is constantly embroiled in charges of heresy on account of his controversial theology. Though Heloise has become an esteemed abbess, she is deeply troubled inwardly by her lingering love for Abelard and her bitterness at their circumstances.

The book combines introductions by two medieval scholars who specialize in Abelard and Heloise; one autobiographical letter written by Abelard, which details his misfortunes; four personal letters and three professional letters exchanged by Abelard and Heloise; and letters following Abelard’s condemnation for heresy in 1141 C.E. This last set of letters includes Abelard’s final confession to Heloise and the correspondence between her and Peter the Venerable, Abelard’s protector. The book ends with hymns composed by Abelard and a brief scholarly discussion of a new source which may reveal more about the lovers’ early relationship.