The Love Letters of Abelard and Heloise

The Love Letters of Abelard and Heloise is a collection of letters written between the famous medieval theologian and philosopher Peter Abelard and his lover Heloise. The letters were written in the 12th century and are considered one of the greatest love stories in Western literature. The letters provide a detailed account of the love affair between Abelard and Heloise which began when Abelard was Heloises tutor. The relationship was scandalous at the time as Abelard was already a renowned scholar and Heloise was the niece of a canon. The letters reveal the depth of the couples affection for each other as well as the difficulties they faced in pursuing their relationship. They also provide insights into the intellectual and religious climate of the time as Abelard was a leading figure in the scholastic movement and Heloise was a highly educated woman. The letters also provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of medieval women as Heloises letters reveal her struggles with the limitations placed on women in her society. Despite the obstacles they faced Abelard and Heloises love persisted and their letters provide a touching testimony to their devotion to each other.