Abelard and Heloise's love letters established this couple as Romeo and Juliet in real life. However, these letters convey much more than the passion a man had for a particular woman. The letters of Abelard and Heloise illustrate the power of the Christian church and how it influenced social ideals in every aspect, especially those regarding sex and the role of women. The letters were written in the 12th century, during this time religion and ethical views went hand in hand. The property system of feudal society ensured that the clergy were revered and their ideals were held true. This meant that the Bible was taken literally and used in everyday life. The story of these two lovers reveals a deeper look into the controversial topics of sex inside and outside of marriage, the idea of ​​virginity, and a woman's subordinate role in society. The idea of ​​sex during the medieval age would have made any “good” person shudder with contempt. Religion played an important role in the way of thinking during this era. The people were taught to live piously, because this, as well as obedience to the church, would take a sinful soul to the eternal afterlife. Therefore, it was also taught that sex was immoral only acceptable in a marriage for the purpose of procreation, but even in marriage there were rules regarding sex. Although the church believed that God sanctified sex within marriage, there were some limitations, such as the days on which it could be practiced. In the letters Abelard confesses his guilt for having made love to his wife, because they had done so on unacceptable dates: God lasts... half of the sheet... series for me – born as I was to be the cause of a such a crime! Is it the general duty of women to bring great men to utter ruin? Hence the warning in the proverbs about women?...she who had been created by the lord as a companion became the instrument of his total downfall. Eloisa embodies social visions of the role of women by embracing preconceived expectations. The Letters of Abelard and Heloise provides not only a heartbreaking story between two star-crossed lovers, but provides profound insight into how Christianity has influenced society's views. The idea of ​​sex was not one of acceptance, but of condemnation and tolerance, even within a marriage. Virginity was admired, but for the wrong reasons, such as the approval of society instead of God. Finally, the role of the woman was not very positive, she was seen as an inferior person, whose role was to serve her husband..