Letter 2, Heloise to Abelard Summary and Analysis

Heloise opens the letter, noting that she ran across of a letter of Abelard's to a friend lamenting he and Heloise's plight (Letter I). Heloise notes that the story is moving and sad and that consolation shared is consolation eased. She admires the debt that Abelard has taken upon himself and is grateful that he built the sanctuary and shrine for the sisters.

However, despite this, Heloise maintains that Abelard is in greater debt to her than anyone else for the love she has given him; she notes her deep sorrow at losing him. Only Abelard can make her happy or sad and she will do whatever he asks. She only became a nun for him, not out of love for God. She only wanted his love and sought only his glory. Heloise reminds Abelard...