Synopses & Reviews
The story of Abelard and Heloise remains one of the world's most dramatic and well-known love affairs. It is told through the letters of French philosopher Peter Abelard and his gifted pupil Heloise. Through their impassioned writings unfolds the story of a romance, from its reckless, ecstatic beginnings to the public scandal, enforced secret marriage, and devastating consequences that followed. These eloquent and intimate letters express a vast range of emotions from adoration and devotion to reproach, indignation, and grief, and offer a fascinating insight into religious life in the Middle Ages.
About the Author
Peter Abelard (1079 &1142) was the greatest logician of the twelfth century. He taught in Paris, where Heloise (1101 &1164) was his pupil when they met.
Betty Radice was editor of the Penguin Classics during the 1960 &70s and an acclaimed translator from Latin, Greek, and Italian.
M. T. Clanchy researches at the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London.