Heloise and Abelard
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Heloise and Abelard. .
I've thought of them as the original Romeo and Juliet. Their story full of wonder and sadness. Well this is a sad story.
The starcrossed lovers who could not catch a break.
Heloise is a strong, forward thinking woman in a time when women were quiet and not well educated. Abelard was a philosopher who became her teacher. They committed the ultimate sin by falling in love. Love a sin? Apparently so.
I can't say I was very sympathetic to Abelard. I found him to be selfish and less than amazing, however, I don't believe he deserved his punishment for love.
Heloise, on the other hand, was an amazing character. She was strong, charming and an empathetic character. I cannot understand, nor agree with some of her decisions.
The actual writings of the two are threaded throughout the book. I must admit, the short pieces of their letters to each other have me yearning to learn more about this couple.
I enjoyed this book and encourage anyone interested in romance or history to read this well written book.