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9780813239958 Academic Inspection Copy

Selected Works of Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis

Letters and Charters
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Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis was a pivotal figure in 12th-century France, leaving a lasting impact through his multifaceted foles. His dedication to his abbey of Saint-Denis, wise counsel to kings, mediation of church disputes, and involvement in the Crusades solidify his legacy. His letters and charters offer invaluable insights into the political, religious, and economic landscape of the era, particularly during the Capetian dynastys formative years. Sugers letters, often addressed to powerful figures, reveal his adept political maneuvering. They document his efforts to consolidate royal authority, maintain peace, and defend the abbeys interests. These writings illuminate medieval diplomacy and the Churchs influence on secular affairs. Suger served as a trusted advisor to Kings Louis VI and Louis VII, even acting as regent during the latters absence on the Second Crusade. He skillfully resolved conflicts among ecclesiastical figures, bolstering royal authority and promoting church unity. Sugers charters meticulously detail the abbeys landholdings, privileges, and administrative practices, reflecting his commitment to restoring its wealth and prestige and protecting the abbeys lands from encroachment. These documents also provide crucial information about the economic and social conditions of 12th-century France, a pivotal period in the development of the French monarchy.

Richard Cusimano (1939-2024) was professor emeritus at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Eric Whitmore is retired adjunct professor of history at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Michael Bardot is professor of history at Maryville University.

"Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis was a pivotal figure in monastic administration, high politics, royal governance and architectural innovation in France during the twelfth-century. Sugers own writings and the letters to him and about him that are published in translation in this collection bring to light aspects of his character and activities little known even to many specialists. The quality of the translations, given the difficulty of some of the Latin, is absolutely outstanding."

~William Chester Jordan, Dayton-Stockton Professor of History emeritus at Princeton University

"This collection of letters and charters brings to life one of the most important religious, political, and cultural figures of twelfth-century France. The editors and translators should be commended for bringing forth this collection suitable for both scholars and students."

~Laurence Marvin, Berry University
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