A brief, astonishing autobiography by a man most remembered for his romance and subsequent castration than for his philosophical struggles and persecution. The story is fascinating to read, even for the layperson with little interest in the ins and outs of medieval religious argument, and regardless of how one views his personality (stubborn, self-absorbed, courageous, all of the above), his own account of his choices, mistakes and persecutions is beautifully written and absorbing. ( )

Lettre première : Traduction d'Octave Gréard, dans "Lettres complètes d'Abélard et d'Héloïse", Paris, Garnier Frères,1859, traduction revue et corrigée par Edouard Bouyé, "Abélard et Héloïse, correspondance", Gallimard ,2000.

This is Abelard's account of his troubled life up to about 1132 0r 1133. He admits he erred grievously in causing Heloise to fall in love with him and bear his child, but he tells of his troubles since he was assaulted by Heloise's kinfolk, and leaves the impression that his enemies were relaentless in seeking to do him harm. This short book is worth reading as it gives Abelard's account of his life up to the time of the writing. He was born in 1079 and died April 21, 1241 at the piory of St. Marcel, near Chalons-sur-Saline. ( )

this is the man's story in his own words. ( )

Historia Calamitatum is not only remarkably readable for a medieval text, but it made for a pretty captivating read. Abelard's incredible bad luck is a bit of a downer at times, but interesting none the less.

The famous story of Abelard and Heloise is a romantic one, but if you're looking for a grand medieval love story don't only read Historia Calamitatum. Abelard's retelling of the relationship is rather cold and systematic--don't expect any flowery verse here. Heloise and Abelard's letters have been published and are likely more in that vein. Historia Calamitatum is still a worthwhile story of course, but only in addition to other works if you are interested in Abelard and Heloise's whole history. ( )