Abelard

views updated Jun 08 2018

Abelard and Héloïse a type of doomed lovers. Peter Abelard (1079–1142), a French scholar, theologian, and philosopher, was noted for an independence of mind which led to his being twice condemned for heresy. His academic career was cut short in 1118 by his tragic love affair with his pupil Héloïse. Abelard was castrated at her uncle's instigation; he entered a monastery, and Héloïse became a nun. Abelard and Héloïse are buried together in Paris.