The book presents a new interpretation of erotic discourse in medieval literature, focusing on the nature of erotic attachments among notable writers such as Abelard and Heloise, Marie de France, Jean de Meun, Dante, Boccaccio, and Chaucer. Each chapter provides insightful analyses that highlight the influence of Augustine and Ovid on these authors, offering fresh perspectives on their works and the complexities of love and desire during the medieval period.
Set in the late Middle Ages, this study explores how Chaucer developed two imaginative realms—antiquity and late-medieval modernity—that shape our understanding of selfhood and social structures. Through an analysis of Chaucer's engagement with Boccaccio's works, the author reveals the influence of these classical and contemporary sources on Chaucer's portrayal of his culture. This examination offers insights into Chaucer's critique and understanding of late medieval society, highlighting his role in the evolution of literary and cultural thought.