The Letters of Abelard and Heloise

by Abelard, Peter, Heloise

• ISBN13: 9780140448993
• ISBN10: 0140448993
• Additional ISBN(s): 9780140442977
• Edition: Revised
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2004-04-27
• Publisher: Penguin Classics
• More Book Details

About This Book

The Letters of Abelard and Heloise

ISBN: 9780140448993

About This Book

"The Letters of Abelard and Heloise" is a timeless collection of correspondence between two of the most iconic figures in medieval history. This Penguin Classics edition, revised by Michael Clanchy, offers a deep dive into the 12th-century romance between Peter Abelard, a renowned French philosopher, and Héloïse, his student and later his lover. The letters reveal the tumultuous and passionate relationship between the two, from their initial meeting to the tragic events that unfolded.

Who Uses It?

Primarily, this book is used by students and educators in courses focused on medieval history, literature, philosophy, and women's studies. It is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of love, power, and intellectual pursuits during the Middle Ages. Scholars and historians often turn to these letters for insights into the cultural and intellectual landscape of 12th-century Europe.

History and Editions

The Penguin Classics edition of "The Letters of Abelard and Heloise" has been a staple in academic circles since its publication on April 27, 2004. This revised edition by Michael Clanchy ensures that the historical context and linguistic nuances are accurately preserved. The book has been widely read and studied for its profound exploration of human emotions, intellectual debates, and the societal constraints faced by its protagonists.

Author and Other Works

Peter Abelard was a prominent philosopher and poet of the 12th century. His works include "Historia Calamitatum," which is a personal account of his life and his relationship with Héloïse. Héloïse, on the other hand, is known for her own writings and her role as a patron of the arts. The letters exchanged between them are considered some of the most beautiful and poignant expressions of love in literary history.

Key Features

• Historical Significance: The letters provide a unique window into the intellectual and cultural life of medieval Europe.
• Literary Masterpiece: The correspondence is renowned for its eloquent language and profound insights into human nature.
• Educational Value: It is a crucial text for understanding the historical context of the Middle Ages and the role of women in intellectual pursuits.
• Timeless Themes: The book explores themes that remain relevant today, such as love, power dynamics, and personal identity.

Detailed Information

ISBNs and Formats

• Paperback: ISBN-13: 9780140448993
• Other Editions:
• Hardcover: Available through various retailers (ISBN may vary)
• E-book: Available through major e-book platforms (ISBN may vary)

Publication Details

• Publisher: Penguin Putnam
• Publication Date: April 27, 2004
• Number of Pages: Varies by edition
• Language: English
• Item Weight: Varies by edition
• Dimensions: Varies by edition

Other Editions and Formats

• Hardcover Editions: Available through Penguin Random House and other retailers (ISBN may vary)
• E-book Editions: Available through major e-book platforms (ISBN may vary)

Related ISBNs:

9780140448993 (Paperback)

9780140449006 (Hardcover) - Note: This may not be accurate; please verify with the publisher.

This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for "The Letters of Abelard and Heloise," making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.

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Additional Resources

For further reading and exploration, consider the following:

• Introduction by Betty Radice: Provides historical context and background information on the letters.
• Notes by Betty Radice: Offers additional insights and explanations of historical and cultural references.
• Other Works by Peter Abelard: "Historia Calamitatum" is a personal account of his life and relationship with Héloïse.

By incorporating this information into your eCampus.com website, you will enhance the user experience for visitors seeking educational resources, particularly those interested in medieval history and literature.

Author Biography

Peter Abelard (1079-û1142) was the greatest logician of the twelfth century. He taught in Paris, where Heloise (1101-û1164) was his pupil when they met.

Betty Radice was editor of the Penguin Classics during the 1960-û70s and an acclaimed translator from Latin, Greek, and Italian.

M. T. Clanchy researches at the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London.

Table of Contents

The Letters of Abelard and Heloise Acknowledgments
Preface to the Revised Edition
Chronology
Introduction
The Letters of Abelard and Heloise in Today's Scholarship
Further Reading

Letter 1. Historia calamitatum: Abelard to a Friend: The Story of His Misfortunes

The Personal Letters
Letter 2. Heloise to Abelard
Letter 3. Abelard to Heloise
Letter 4. Heloise to Abelard
Letter 5. Abelard to Heloise

The Letters of Direction
Letter 6. Heloise to Abelard
Letter 7. Abelard to Heloise (summarized)
Letter 8. Abelard to Heloise

Abelard's Confession of Faith

Letters of Peter the Venerable and Heloise
Peter the Venerable: Letter (98) to Pope Innocent II
Peter the Venerable: Letter (115) to Heloise
Heloise: Letter (167) to Peter the Venerable
Peter the Venerable: Letter (168) to Heloise

Two Hymns by Abelard
Sabbato ad Vesperas
In Parasceve Domini: III. Nocturno

Appendix: An Excerpt from the 'Lost Love Letter' of Heloise and Abelard

Maps
The Kingdom of France in the time of Abelard
Paris in the time of Abelard

Notes
Index