Abelard: A Medieval Life

by M.T. Clanchy

Michael Clanchy introduces the reader to medieval life through the experience of Peter Abelard, the master of the Paris schools.

Genres: Biography, History, Nonfiction, Philosophy, Medieval, France, Religion

416 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Michael T. Clanchy is a Professor Emeritus of Medieval History at the Institute of Historical Research, University of London, and a Fellow of the British Academy. He has also taught at the University of Glasgow, and is well known for his books, such as From Memory to Written Record (1979; revised and expanded editions 1993 and 2013: a study of the triumph of literacy in medieval England), England and its Rulers 1066-1272 (1983; revised editions 1998 and 2006) and Abelard: A Medieval Life (1997). His interests are primarily in law and government in the 12th and 13th centuries. He is Patron of the London Medieval Society.[

Reviews

[Chimene Bateman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very readable account of Abelard’s life. As the title indicates, the book is focused on his life rather than on his works. Clanchy convincingly depicts an Abelard who is daring and clever, but also hubristic, and a man who doesn’t always practice what he preaches. It’s a fascinating portrait of powerful clergy and academics in the 12th century. There is so much rivalry and infighting! And I hadn’t realised that scholars and monks could be so much at odds with each other (though Abelard wore both hats at various points). The academic masters cultivated cult followings of students, and the monks were jealous (though they seem to be just as fond of power themselves). The sections of the book that discuss Heloise are very sympathetic. This study reinforces my impression of Michael as a generous and broad-minded medieval historian.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything you wanted to know about Peter Abelard is contained in Clanchy's biography. It read very well, was engaging, and is one that any scholar on the scholastics should pick up.

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly excellent biography of Abelard's life woven, as usual, with Clanchy's finesse. For any of those interested in this very medieval, very strange man, Clanchy's book is definitely a reference.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clanchy presents a fullness to Abelard balancing the known sources with scholarly assessment. His book is well written, accessible, and well founded in an insightful explication of the times, politcs of the church and France, and the uneasy exchange between ecclesiastical and philosophical apporaches to truth. I highly recommend the book for those inerested in Abelard, medieval history, diatribe, church history, and the interaction of theology and philosophy. Much insight can be gained from a study of this book with respect to current struggles between the sciences and humanities.

[Jenny Nielsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Has details other biographies miss, but also requires padding in a few areas. Best discussion of Abelard as a Goliard -- not the best discussion of Abelard as a lover. Supplement with Constant Mews, James Burge, and Levitan's translation of the letters for a full picture.

[David A-S · Rating 3 out of 5]

The title really speaks to Clanchy's goals. He does center the work on Abelard, but he also spends much time putting him in context. It is an interesting read, though if you are hoping to read much about Abelard and Heloise and/or their writings, then this isn't the best choice.

[Sherry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Halfway through and it is very informative and easy to read -- a great resource for anyone wanting to know and understand the famous 12th century philosopher and lover.

[Mandy Hager · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful source book for research, although I found some of Clancy's attitudes towards Héloise and women in general rather off-putting.