The Art of Courtly Love (by Andreas Capellanus)

"The Art of Courtly Love," written by Andreas Capellanus in the late 12th century, is a treatise that explores the nature of love in the context of medieval society, particularly among the nobility. It outlines a system of rules and ideals governing courtly love, emphasizing romantic admiration, chivalry, and the often unattainable nature of love, which is pursued in secret and idealized. Capellanus categorizes different types of love and discusses the complexities of relationships, highlighting the contrast between social duties and personal desires, ultimately influencing literature and culture in the Middle Ages and beyond.