Eloise
This week we will be discussing Eleanor of Aquitaine as well as another important woman of the Middle Ages, Heloise d'Argenteuil (Eloise)
Eloise was a French scholar and nun born sometime between 1090 and 1100 AD. She is most famous for her love affair with her teacher the theologian Abelard. Their legendary affair began when Abelard sought a place in the home of Fulbert, Eloise's uncle. The couple falls in love, but Eloise's uncle does not approve so they begin to meet in secret. Eloise eventually became pregnant, left Paris, and traveled to live with Abelard's family during her pregnancy. After giving birth to her son, Astrolabe, Eloise and Abelard got married in secret. Fulbert, seeking to damage Abelard's reputation, began to spread the rumor of their affair and marriage. Eloise denied her marriage to Abelard and was sent by Abelard to a convent for protection from her uncle. Abelard is eventually castrated by Fulbert and his men for sending Eloise to become a nun which led to his decision to become monk.
Eloise eventually became abbess of her religious community and she and Abelard wrote letters to each other over many years. Eloise and Abelard are together again in death. Their remains are buried side-by-side in Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. The story of Eloise and Abelard continues to inspire the many lovers who bring love letters to the grave in tribute to the couple. Eloise is heroic for being an independent young woman who was aware of what she wanted and who she wanted to love, even if others outside of the relationship didn't think it was appropriate she still followed her heart.
Here are some interesting sources about Eloise and Abelard:
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