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Andreas Capellanus

The Art of Courtly Love

The Art of Courtly Love by Andreas Capellanus is a 12th-century guide to the intricate and highly stylized social rules of courtly love in medieval Europe. The book is divided into three sections, each offering insights into the complexities of romantic love and the behaviors expected of those who engage in it. The first section of the book introduces the concept of courtly love and the rules that govern it. Capellanus outlines the various stages of love, from the initial attraction to the final consummation, and the behaviors that are considered appropriate at each stage. He emphasizes the importance of discretion, loyalty, and the pursuit of unattainable love, which he argues is the purest form of romantic love. The second section of the book consists of a series of dialogues between lovers, which illustrate the principles outlined in the first section. These dialogues demonstrate the artful and often playful banter that was considered an essential part of courtly love, as well as the importance of maintaining a certain level of decorum and propriety. The third and final section of the book is a series of judgments, in which Capellanus offers his own opinions on various questions related to love and relationships. These judgments cover a wide range of topics, from the ethics of adultery to the proper way to break off a relationship. Despite its age, The Art of Courtly Love remains a fascinating and insightful look into the social norms and values of medieval Europe. The book's emphasis on the importance of courtly love as a form of spiritual and emotional enrichment continues to resonate with modern readers, and its exploration of the complexities of romantic love remains as relevant today as it was 800 years ago. Overall, The Art of Courtly Love is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of romantic love, or for anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the social and cultural norms that have shaped our modern conceptions of love and relationships...