Perspective

Andreas Capellanus, the author of The Art of Courtly Love, was likely the chaplain for Countess Marie de Troyes of Champagne, a woman involved in developing and extending the practice of courtly love. Apparently she requested that he write the book, although close attention to the text indicates that he did not want to write the book and was rather pressured into it. For instance, assuming that Capellanus was compelled is one way to explain why he praises love in the first two books, but then completely changes his opinion in book three where he implores Walter to reject it. Perhaps the first two books were written at the behest of the Countess and the last in order to express Capellanus's real opinion.

Capellanus's perspective displays a deep expertise on the structure and nature of courtly love. The author recognizes detailed courtship rituals and is able to give...