The wisdom of the Middle Ages /

One of several books on wisdom by Kellogg, a practicing lawyer based in Washington, DC, the present title examines what wisdom may be gleaned from particular works of the Middle Ages. Well written and reasonably well documented, the book looks at the usual suspects--Dante and the Comedy, Boethius and the Consolation, Augustine's Confessions. For seasoned readers these discussions will offer few surprises, but the novice will find valuable information. Kellogg begins the book with a chapter on the New Testament, taking a decidedly historical approach but treating its subject matter delicately. The chapter on Song of Roland and Chrétien de Troyes's Arthurian romances is insightful, clearly outlining the shift in interiority and psychology in the movement from epic to romance. Unfortunately, however, the book reads like another catalog of great dead men from history: besides Heloise (and her three letters), no woman authors are represented, and female characters are given short shrift (as in the chapter on Beowulf). Though the book is suitable for recreational reading, the lack of interest in female writers, subjects, and characters makes it a questionable resource for those who may not know how inclusive and exciting the Middle Ages were. Summing Up: Optional. General readers. --Michel Aaij, Auburn University at Montgomery