The Art of Courtly Love

Discuss the extent to which the English translation of Andreas’s Latin title, De amore, captures the content of his discussion. In what ways it is accurate and in what ways misleading?

In the text’s Preface, Andreas writes: “I know clearer than day that after you have learned the art of love your progress in it will be more cautious” (27). Consider why Andreas believes that learning about love will make Walter more cautious. What other benefits does Andreas believe learning about love can have in the long term?

Examine Andreas’s use of pagan imagery and mythology in Books 1 and 2. What do the “works of Venus” signify? Use at least three examples from the text in your discussion.