heloise and abelard · 2008. 2. 12. · heloise and abelard a new musical music by tom polum lyrics...

HELOISE AND ABELARD

A New Musical

Music by Tom Polum Lyrics by Greg Cullen

Book by Tom Polum, Greg Cullen, Stuart Marland

Based on the original letters of Abelard and Heloise

www.HeloiseandAbelard.com Version 9-1

DEC 2007

Characters Peter Abelard – Mid to late 30’s. The keenest intellect and greatest teacher in all of Europe. He is handsome and well-spoken, with a strong and vibrant voice. Although required by Canon Law to be celibate, there is nothing ‘of the cleric’ about him. Heloise – A classic young woman coming of age. We see at once the beauty of her soul. Though innocent to the ways of the world, her haunting eyes burn with inner passion. Canon Bedell – An elderly canon, free of spirit and will. He is kind and caring. Drinks. Canon Fulbert – An aging and fussy canon who is excitable. He is the uncle of Heloise. Jean-Luc – A young student searching for reason. Moselle – A prostitute. She enjoys the art of her profession. Mother Abbess – A strict woman who strives to keep order. Ensemble: Students of Peter Abelard: Henri - the wisest Bernard - the prankster Jerome - the youngest Canon Alberic – A spitefully opinionated man who is more conscious of his dignity than of his calling. Lucette and Chloé – Two of Moselle’s bawdy prostitutes. Pimp – In charge of the whores. Marie-Louise – A novice nun at Argenteuil and the friend of Heloise. Bishop Geoffrey de Lèves – Wise and fair. Master Devoe and Narisse, his wife – Mid twenties to thirties. At various times both principals and ensemble members can represent Monks, Nuns, Guards & Townsfolk. Total Cast: 18 (plus optional ensemble)

France - 1116 A.D. to 1132 A.D.

Act I

The Streets of Paris Moselle’s Brothel

The Cathedral of Notre Dame Abelard’s Room in Fulbert’s Home

The Students’ Room The Convent at Argenteuil Abelard’s Old Quarters

A Stage Outside the Cathedral of Notre-Dame

Act II

The Streets of Paris The Convent at Argenteuil The Countryside of Brittany The Cathedral of Notre Dame

Fulbert’s House The Street A Hospital

The Convent at Argenteuil

Musical Numbers Act I Miserere Nobis (Please God, Save Us!) - Ensemble Have Your Heard? – Moselle and Ensemble God Gave Us A Gift – Abelard and Company Someone To Adore – Jean-Luc How Can You Refuse? – Moselle and Ensemble I Wonder Did They Speak of This? (Love is the Answer) – Heloise Why Have I Never Felt Like This Before? – Abelard, Heloise and Company Everything Was Changed – Abelard and Heloise O Quanta Qualia (Behold The Birth Of Evening) – Nuns and Mother Abbess Whisper My Name – Abelard and Heloise This Gentle Love – Heloise and Mother Abbess What Hope Have I? – Bedell The Mystery Play/I am Yours – Fulbert, Abelard, Heloise and Ensemble Act II Have You Heard? – Reprise – Moselle, Fulbert, Jean-Luc and Ensemble I Will Rage Against The Sun – Abelard I Am a Man – Abelard Suscipe Me (Take Me To You) – Mother Abbess, Nuns, Abelard and Heloise Pie Deus (Loving God/The Wedding) – Ensemble I Wonder Did they Speak of This? Reprise – Jean-Luc and Ensemble The Attack – Alberic, Fulbert, Jean-Luc, Moselle and Ensemble Bedell’s Prayer – Bedell Non Nobis (Forgiveness to Us)/This Gentle Love Reprise – The Nuns The Lullaby - Heloise The Convincing – Heloise, Abelard and the Abbess I Whisper Your Name – Heloise Finale/I Am Yours - Reprise – Abelard, Heloise and Ensemble

ACT 1

SCENE 1

PARIS - EVENING (1117 A.D.)

As the curtain rises, voices of monks are heard in prayer. They sing an obbligato Gregorian chant.

NOTE: MUSIC ON THE ACCOMPANYING DEMO CD ARE FROM VARIOUS LIVE PRESENTATIONS AND STUDIO RECORDINGS. WHEN LYRICS AND/OR ARRANGEMENTS DIFFER FROM THE DEMO, PLEASE FOLLOW THE SCRIPT.

TRACK 1 - "HEU DOMINE"

MONKS(singing, in Latin)

HEU, HEU, DOMINE.

QUID CREATI FUIMUS,SI SIT INDULGENTIA NOBISCLAUS ADITUS HEUS.

The voices of nuns singing in prayer answer the monks' chant.

NUNS

(singing)

FOR WHAT PURPOSE WERE WE CREATED?

A man and a woman make love in a bed. They are DEVOE, early thirties, and NARISSE, his wife, the same age.

NARISSE

(playfully)Let not thy heart be drawn into the ways of woman.

DEVOELose not thyself in her paths.

NARISSE

He who pleaseth God escapes her.

DEVOEBut the sinner is her prey.

They continue as lights come up on CANON ALBERIC, mid fifties, CANON FULBERT late fifties and CANON BEDELL, mid sixties, in Canon Alberic’s office.

2.

ALBERIC

What would have us do, Bedell? Master DeVoe clearly flouts Canon law by taking a wife.

BEDELLI hope for all our sakes you are sure of your facts.

FULBERT

We have the marriage certificate.

ALBERIC

And a sworn affidavit from the priest who married them.

BEDELLAnd no doubt you extracted that under his own free will.

ALBERIC

We are engaged in a holy war against the devil. Free will has become a luxury. Imagine the chaos it would cause if applied to our brave crusaders? Why should we be any different at home. Are we not fighting the same enemy?

BEDELLMaybe its age playing tricks on me, but I swear sometimes I can’t tell who the enemy is anymore. They all seem “much of a muchness”.

FULBERT

Are you drinking, Bedell?

BEDELLJust celebrating the victory of dogma over human nature.

ALBERIC

If human nature were allowed to run its course we would have rape and murder on every street corner.

BEDELLWhereas now we have the crusades.

As the music swells, guards burst in and drag the lovers from their bed.

Alberic enters.

ALBERIC

(To the guards)Arrest them! Church law clearly states that all teachers must remain celibate. Your marriage is therefore declared a criminal offence against God. Take him from his whore!

3.

NARISSE

No!

DEVOEI will not lose faith!

NARISSE

Canon Alberic, please I beg of you.

ALBERIC

Drag them along with their shame through the streets.

The guards drag DeVoe and Narisse off.

As he is dragged through the streets, DeVoe is ridiculed by townsfolk.

Voices in prayer continue singing.

TRACK 2 - "MISERERE NOSTRI" (EXCERPT)

TOWNSFOLK(singing)

PLEASE GOD, SAVE US!


QUIS EST QUI SUB VENIAT?PLEASE GOD, SAVE US!


MISERERE NOSTRI!

Fulbert pushes through the crowd on his way home.

TOWNSFOLK (cont'd) (CONT’D)



THE SCENE SHIFTS TO:

4.

Scene 2

FULBERT’S HOUSE - IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING

HELOISE, a beautiful young woman of seventeen, paces the room. She reads demonstrably from a book.

Her friend and teacher JEAN-LUC, a young student at the Notre-Dame schools nervously stands watch at the door.

HELOISE

(reading; playfully)"Stark naked as she stood before my eye, what arms and shoulders did I touch and see...

JEAN-LUC

Ssh!

HELOISE

How apt her breasts were to be pressed by me!

JEAN-LUC

Ssh! You promised! And do you have to read it with such salacious intent?!

HELOISE

(louder)

How smooth her belly!

JEAN-LUC

Right, that’s it. Give it back!

Jean-Luc grabs for the book.

HELOISE

Under her...! No!

(Laughing; dodging his reach)Wait! Wait! The next bit’s even better! “Under her waist I saw--”

JEAN-LUC

I don’t care what Ovid saw, give it back! Your uncle will kill me!

They struggle playfully over the book.

HELOISE

You’ll tear it! Shame on you! Have you no respect for the ancients?!

Fulbert enters. Jean-Luc and Heloise stand to attention.

5.

(MORE)

HELOISE (cont'd) (CONT’D)(demurely)

Uncle Fulbert! What a pleasant distraction from my studies.

FULBERT

I hope you are keeping Heloise focussed on her tasks, Master Jean-Luc! I thought I heard...? Education is best delivered through a combination of fear and repetition.

HELOISE

But uncle, “Knowledge which is acquired under compulsion obtains no hold on the mind.” Plato.

JEAN-LUC

“Much speech is one thing, well timed speech is another.” Sophocles.

HELOISE

“It is unbecoming for young men to utter maxims.” Aristotle.

FULBERT

It is unbecoming for young women to have the last note, no matter how prettily sung.

He kisses Heloise on the cheek.

FULBERT (cont'd) (CONT’D)As for you Master Jean-Luc, I would be happier if my niece were quoting the holy scripture. That is, after all, what I am paying you for.

JEAN-LUC

Canon Fulbert, I assure you that Mademoiselle Heloise is already capable of instructing most of the university lecturers on testaments -- old or new. The nuns at Argenteuil taught her well.

FULBERT

But they also filled her head with this Greek and Roman philosophy! Not unlike Peter Abelard does to students in this very city. Pagan philosophy!

(Noticing the book)What is that you’re reading?

HELOISE

(lying)Saint Paul’s letters to the Corinthians.

FULBERT

Excellent! I’m afraid I shall not be able to dine with you this evening, my dear. I have a woeful duty to perform.

(to Jean-Luc)

6.

FULBERT(cont'd)The teacher DeVoe, do you know him? We have just discovered he's married in secret.

JEAN-LUC

Married?

HELOISE

What will happen to him?

FULBERT

Never mind him, pity your poor uncle who has to go without his dinner. These renegade teachers spout the classics then think they can do as they like. A pity he didn't remember the old saying, “There is nothing so absurd but some philosopher has said it.”

HELOISE

Cicero.

FULBERT

Pardon me?

HELOISE

You quote Cicero, the Roman.

FULBERT

Indeed? Well... Excuse me. I must attend to this sorry business.

Fulbert exits.

JEAN-LUC

DeVoe married?! They'll destroy him.

HELOISE

Oh, Uncle Fulbert won’t harm him, he’s just old fashioned that’s all. You realize what this means don’t you?

JEAN-LUC

I don’t think you realize --

HELOISE

If Uncle Fulbert isn’t here tonight you can take me to the townsquare to hear Peter Abelard’s public lecture!

JEAN-LUC

Oh, no! Absolutely not!


7.

(MORE)

SCENE 3

THE TOWN SQUARE - LATER THAT EVENING

TRACK 3 - "HAVE YOU HEARD?" (EXCERPT)

A group of rowdy monastic students enters led by HENRI, BERNARD and JEROME. They cross through the busy square.

MOSELLE, a prostitute in her mid-thirties, and two younger ‘girls’, LUCETTE and CHLOE solicit business.

STUDENTS

Make way! Make way!

HENRIThe great Abelard comes here today!

STUDENTS AND TOWNSFOLK

(singing)

HAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD?

HAVE YOU HEARD WHAT THEY SAY?

ABELARD COMES HERE TODAY!

ALL FALL QUIET,NOT A WORD!

FOR THE GREATEST OF MEN MUST NOW BE HEARD.

MOSELLE

OH, WHAT A CRIME!

ITS SUCH A WASTE.

THAT SUCH A MAN SHOULD BE SO CHASTE!WHY IS HE CELIBATE IN HIS BED?

HE COULD BE TEACHING A COURSE ON ME INSTEAD.

TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARD THE WORD?

Heloise and Jean-Luc enter.

HELOISE

HERE AT LAST!

I CAN’T BELIEVETHAT I WILL HEAR BEFORE I LEAVE,THIS MAN WHO’S SETTING THE WORLD ABLAZE.

HE COMES TO BRANDISH A TORCH!

ON TRUTH WE'LL GAZE!

TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD? ABELARD COMES HERE TODAY!

8.

TOWNSFOLK(cont'd)

(MORE)

ALL FALL SILENT,

NOT A SOUND.

DON’T EVEN SHUFFLE YOUR FEET UPON THE GROUND.HAVE YOU HEARD WHAT THEY SAY?

ABELARD IS ON HIS WAY?

Canon BEDELL, mid-fifties, enters.

BEDELLWILL YOU SETTLE DOWN, I PRAY?

ALL

HEAR NOW WHAT HE HAS TO SAY!WE HAVE THE GREATEST OF MINDS RIGHT HERE TODAY!

ABELARD, late thirties, enters with a written lecture in hand. The crowd falls silent as he begins the lecture.

TRACK 4 - "GOD GAVE US A GIFT"

ABELARD

(singing)

WHEN GOD MADE THE EARTH, THE SUN AND THE SKIES,

THE BEASTS OF THE FIELD AND PREY...

WERE WE MADE THE SAME AS FOWL, FISH OR GAME,OR DID HE GIVE US MORE TO SAY?

GIVE THE STONE MASON HIS CHISEL, THE WOODMAN HIS AXE,THE CRUSADER A SWORD AND A SHIELD.

BUT THE MOST SACRED WEAPON LIES NOT IN OUR HANDS.

WHEN FACED WITH REASON, OUR ENEMY YIELDS.

GOD GAVE US A GIFT,A PART OF HIMSELF,A LANGUAGE, REASON AND THOUGHT.

SO WE MAY EDUCATE AND ELEVATE

AS CHRIST HIMSELF HAS TAUGHT.

BUT REASON IS THE LIGHT TO GUIDE US

FROM THE DARKNESS OF THE PAST.

SUPERSTITION TRIES TO BIND US,

WHERE FALLEN ANGELS ONCE WERE CAST.

BUT BEWARE THE MANY GUISES

IGNORANCE IS WONT TO WEAR.

HE MAY COME IN PURPLE VESTMENTS,BUT THOUGHTS SPRING FROM HIS DERRIERE!

The crowd responds.

ABELARD (cont'd)

LET THE TRUTH BECOME OUR MASTER.ITS EXAMPLE IS DIVINE.

9.

ABELARD(cont'd)ARMED WITH WORDS AND THOUGHT AND REASON

WE HAVE THE FUTURE TO DEFINE!

GOD GAVE US A GIFTA LANGUAGE REASON AND THOUGHT.

SO WE MAY EDUCATE AND ELEVATE


CROWD

GOD GAVE US A GIFT!A PART OF HIMSELF,A LANGUAGE, REASON AND THOUGHT!SO WE MAY EDUCATE AND ELEVATE


ABELARD

THAT IS WHY TO TEACH IS SACRED.

ON THE WINGS OF REASON, ARISE!

LET NO EARTHLY POWER CORRUPT YOU.ETERNITY SHALL BE YOUR PRIZE.

HELOISE

GOD GAVE US A GIFT.

BEDELLAre there any questions for Master Abelard?

MOSELLE

Tell me, Master Abelard, why is it that teachers must be celibate?

ABELARD

Frustrating, isn’t it?

MOSELLE

But do you practice what you preach?

ABELARD

My dear, not practicing is what I preach!

MOSELLE

That’s fine with me -- I don’t need any practice!

As the crowd responds with laughter, Bedell acknowledges Bernard’s question.

BEDELLYou!

BERNARD

The Canons argue that understanding human history is an irrelevance to faith and need not be taught. How do you answer that?

10.

ABELARD

Today is the pupil of yesterday. Not to understand the past means that the world forever remains in its nursery. Perhaps that is where the Canons feels most at home.

The crowd is uneasy with Abelard’s barb against the Church.

ABELARD (cont'd) (CONT’D)Present company excluded of course, Canon Bedell.

BEDELLIn all humility, I admit it's probably deserved.

HENRICanon Fulbert today arrested one of our teachers, Master DeVoe, because it seems he was married. Is Master DeVoe guilty of putting his “point” before his argument?

Now more at ease, the crowd responds with mirth and sniggering.

ABELARD

Ah Henri... I would advise that you remember Plato. “Wise men talk because they have something to say, fools because they have to say something.” One last question.

HELOISE

I would like to ask a --

JEAN-LUC

No, Heloise! You mustn’t!

JEROMEWell, well, well... Jean-Luc with a beautiful girl!

BEDELLNot you, girl. Master Abelard has already had one proposal of marriage tonight.

HELOISE

I'm not sure that was the lady's proposition?

MOSELLE

Oh, I wasn't propositioning, Abelard could have me for free.

Moselle's pimp grabs her roughly by the arm.

HELOISE

They say the best things are.

11.

MOSELLE

And I am the best sweetheart, believe me.(To the Pimp)

It was a joke.

Abelard indicates for Bedell to let Heloise speak.

HELOISE

Thank you. Staying with marriage... Why has celibacy become law. Do we have the right to turn faith into legislation?

ABELARD

Socrates says, “By all means marry. If you get a good wife, you’ll be happy. If you get a bad one, you’ll become a philosopher.” Master DeVoe, however, was a philosopher before he got married. In which case he should have known better.

HELOISE

Yet you argue that each person has to make his own relationship with God. Wasn’t it therefore, Master DeVoe’s right to marry if his own conscience was clear?

ABELARD

Very good. Should there be such a thing as religious law, or is it up to each of us to make our own peace with God? But rather than me answer, I would like my students to each submit an essay on the question.

BEDELLAnd that, ladies and gentlemen, concludes the lecture. Good night to you all and may God bless you.

The crowd disperses.

ABELARD

Here Bedell, give me your arm. Take the strain off your gout.

BEDELLA glass or two of wine might be more effective and less troublesome. You should be careful what you say Abelard. Only a fool underestimates his enemies.

ABELARD

Who is that girl with Jean-Luc?

BEDELLNot the enemy I was referring too, that’s for sure.

Abelard and Bedell exit.

12.

(MORE)

Heloise notices Abelard has left his lecture notes and crosses to retrieve them.

HELOISE

Is your teacher always so unconventional? I suppose that's why young men from all of Europe flock to study with him?

JEAN-LUC

He is a poet. Through him it is possible to transform the ignorance of a thousand years in a few brief moments.

As Heloise reads Abelard’s lecture notes, Jean-Luc sings.

TRACK 5 - "SOMEONE TO ADORE"

JEAN-LUC (cont'd) (CONT’D)(singing)

HOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBEHIS BODY TURN TO SPIRIT BEFORE MY EYES?

TANGIBLE FLESH TRANSFORMS TO PRESENCE.

AND MORTAL HUMAN, BECOMES IN ESSENCE,SOMETHING TO ADORE.

HOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBETHE EARTH SURRENDER SUBSTANCE TO THE SKIES?TANGIBLE FLESH WAS ONCE HIS PRISON.

HELOISE AND JEAN-LUC

BUT HE'S ARISEN,

FREE AT LAST TO SOAR.

JEAN-LUC

I CANNOT NAME JUST WHAT I FEEL.

WHAT USE ARE WORDS, FOR IT'S UNREAL.A SECRET ALCHEMY TRANSFORMS,

COMBINED WITH ELEMENTS OF HIM I AM REBORN!

HELOISE

IN HIS WORDS THE TRUTH CAN BE DIVINED.

FROM THE FORGE OF REASON I ARISE

HELOISE AND JEAN-LUC

WHEN HE SPEAKS THE HEAVENS ARE DEFINED

AND HIS BODY TURNS TO SPIRIT BEFORE MY EYES!

IS IT SO WRONG I SHOULD FORSAKE ALL ELSE TO TRAVEL HIS WAKE?

JEAN-LUC

MY RESTLESS SPIRIT WON'T CONFORM.WITHIN THIS BODY I WAS LOST,

13.

JEAN-LUC(cont'd)NOW, I'M REBORN!

(privately, to Abelard)

IF I DARE TO BEGIN TO DESCRIBE,

MY BODY TURN TO SPIRIT BEFORE YOUR EYES,

TANGIBLE FLESH TRANSFORMS TO PRESENCE.

COULD I BE, IN ESSENCE,SOMEONE YOU ADORE?

THE LIGHTS FADE AS THE SCENE SHIFTS TO:

14.

SCENE 4

AN ANTE ROOM IN THE CATHEDRAL OF NOTRE DAME - THE NEXT DAY

ALBERIC, mid to late-sixties, is being dressed by Fulbert, who fusses over him. Bedell, in normal robes, enters.

FULBERT

Canon Bedell, you're hardly dressed?

BEDELLStrange, I could have sworn I was.

FULBERT

I meant dressed suitably for the condemnation of DeVoe!

BEDELLDo I have to dress like a peacock in order to see a man shamed and dragged through the streets?

ALBERIC

Gentlemen, I wish to discuss the order of events.

BEDELLAh, yes Canon Alberic... The process by which we reach a foregone conclusion is all-important.

ALBERIC

Bedell, your cynicism is a sad reflection on your faith.

BEDELLNo, Canon Alberic. At times like these, I think my faith is a sad reflection upon my cynicism. So what punishment have we dreamt up for DeVoe?

ALBERIC

It is not DeVoe who concerns us, so much as his wife.

BEDELLI don’t recall her taking a vow of celibacy.

FULBERT

It is she, who, like Eve, has led DeVoe astray.

BEDELLYou mean she loved him?

ALBERIC

I worry for you, Bedell. Honestly, I do.

15.

BEDELLJust as long as you do not pray for me, Canon Alberic. That's all I ask.


16.

SCENE 5

INSIDE THE CATHEDRAL OF NOTRE DAME - IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING

Ominous bells resound as a boisterous crowd arrives for the condemnation of DeVoe.

Moselle, Lucette and Chloe observe cautiously from the shadows as Heloise and Jean-Luc enter.

As Narisse enters and kneels to pray, the crowd makes way, observes and comments.

MAN #1

So that’s what he gave his life up for?

MAN #2What’ll become of her now? She’s ruined his life.

MAN #3Whore! Whore!

MAN #4How come these sinners always have enough to eat, good clothes upon their backs?

Several women add their own thoughts.

WOMEN #1

That's her, isn't it? Over there! Look!

WOMAN #2

She must have thought she could get away with it.

WOMEN #1

Thought she’d be provided for.

WOMAN #2

Sold her soul for a teacher’s wages!

HELOISE

Dear God, how terrified and alone she is.

Canon Alberic enters to officiate. Fulbert and Bedell follow him on.

ALBERIC

Order! Order! The hall will come to order! The righteous justice of the people will be done.

17.

The crowd quiets as a rhythmic underscoring begins.

ALBERIC (cont'd)

Bring in the accused.

DeVoe is dragged in by guards. He has been tortured.

Narisse is horrified. She reaches out toward him.

DEVOEI have not lost faith!

VOICES FROM THE CROWD

Heretic! Blasphemer! Corrupter of the faith!

ALBERIC

Order! The people shall have justice, fear not. Now, order! Order! Guards!

Abelard enters.

HELOISE

Abelard's here. He'll defend Devoe, won't he?

ALBERIC

Bring him forward!

Guards drag DeVoe forward.

ALBERIC (cont'd) (CONT’D)You are charged with breaking your vow of celibacy. How do you plead?

DEVOEWhere in the Bible does it say a teacher or priest should be celibate? The only reason the church has imposed these laws is so that they will inherit the wealth of our families. It has nothing to do with faith and everything to do with common usury!

The crowd reacts.

ALBERIC

You mock Christ’s celibacy? You must witness the result of your blasphemies. Take her!

Abelard, Jean-Luc, Heloise and Canon Bedell are shocked.

18.

BEDELLWhat are you doing?

DEVOENo! Leave her! Take me!

NARISSE

Help me! Help me, please!

HELOISE

I can’t believe my uncle would allow this.

"I WONDER DID THEY SPEAK OF THIS?" (INTRO) / "MISERERE NOBIS" (REPRISE)

TOWNSFOLKPLEASE GOD SAVE US!

DEVOE(singing)

LAST NIGHT WE LAY ENTWINED...

NARISSE

LAST NIGHT WE LAY ENTWINED...

TOWNSFOLKPLEASE GOD, SAVE US!

Narisse is tied to a frame. Her dress is ripped from her back. A guard flogs her.

Jean-Luc tries to hide Heloise’s eyes but she defiantly insists upon watching.

TOWNSFOLK MISERERE NOSTRI!


As the flogging ends, the crowd begins to disperse - some with guilt, others with their blood lust sated.

TOWNSFOLK (cont'd) (CONT’D)



The body of Narisse is cut down. She is dragged off by the guards.

Heloise approached Abelard

19.

HELOISE

LAST NIGHT THEY LAY ENTWINEDAPPROACHING FATE, BY CANDLE TIMED.

THEIR LAST EMBRACE FULL KNEW THE RISK

ABELARD

I WONDER DID THEY SPEAK OF THIS?

HELOISE

WHAT POWER EXISTS IN LOVER'S ARMSTO LOSE ALL FEAR OF WHAT MAY CAUSE THEM HARM?

WHAT MADE THEM THINK THAT LOVE WAS THE ANSWER,WHY IN BODY WE EXIST?

ABELARD

LAST NIGHT WHEN THEY ENTWINED,


JEAN-LUC

Heloise...

ABELARD

Best take her home, Jean-Luc.

Jean-Luc leads Heloise off. Abelard looks on.

ABELARD (cont'd) (CONT’D)I WONDER SHOULD WE SPEAK OF THIS?


20.

SCENE 6

THE STREET NEAR MOSELLE’S BROTHEL - LATER THAT DAY

Narisse is alone, in pain. Jean-Luc and Heloise enter.

HELOISE

How can I face my uncle?

JEAN-LUC

Be thankful you have a home to go to.

Heloise sees Narisse and heads toward her.

JEAN-LUC (cont'd)

Leave her.

HELOISE

How can we?

JEAN-LUC

We can’t be seen to help her.

HELOISE

I think I remember the “Good Samaritan” taking the opposite view.

DEVOE’S WIFE

Please! Don’t hurt me!

HELOISE

We won't! Jean-Luc, we must get her to safety.

JEAN-LUC

What can I do? There is nowhere for her now.

Henri, Jerome and Bernard enter in high spirits, looking for prostitutes.

HENRIOh, ladies! Where are you?

BERNARD

Look its DeVoe’s wife!

The pimp comes onto the street to tout for custom

JEROMEAnd Jean-Luc!

21.

HENRIWhat are you doing here? And who is this little beauty!

HELOISE

Get away from me! Can’t you see this woman needs help?

PIMP

You boys want some fun? Step this way. Moselle!

TRACK 6 - "HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?"

Moselle, Lucette and Chloe appear. They cross to the students.

MOSELLE

(singing)

WHY NOT STEP INTO MY BOUDOIR?

I'LL SEE WHAT KIND OF MAN YOU ARE.

IF YOU WANT, I'LL BE YOUR MOTHER,OR I CAN BE YOUR SLUTTISH LOVER.

JEROMEListen to that!

HENRIAre you ready, Jerome?

BERNARD

Can you handle her?

The students laugh.

MOSELLE

DREAMS COME TRUE, MY LITTLE BABY.COME LIE WITHIN THIS LADY'S ARMS.I'LL BE ROUGH AND LEAVE YOU BLEEDING,OR LIKE A VIRGIN, SHY AND PLEADING.

HENRIGo, Jerome!

BERNARD

Go on!

Jerome steps forward.

JEROME(to Pimp)

How much?

HELOISE

Please, Jean-Luc. Help me!

22.

LUCETTE

Who’s that?

HENRIMadam DeVoe! Another whore!

MOSELLE

Lucette, bring her inside.

HENRIWait! What about us?

PIMP

Get back to work!

LUCETTE

Go to hell! Come on, Chloe. Help!

HELOISE

Where are you taking her?

MOSELLE

What’s it to you?

PIMP

(to Lucette)

We're not a charity!

HELOISE

(To Moselle)

I just want to know that she’s all right.

PIMP

(to Moselle)

If she stays, she works.

MOSELLE

Alright! (to Heloise)

Go home, little rich girl, but remember this we spread our legs so that you don’t have to.

HELOISE

No I...

JEAN-LUC

Let them take her.

Lucette and Chloe help Narisse to the brothel. Heloise offers money to Moselle.

23.

HELOISE

Here, please. Take some money. Make sure she is cared for.

The Pimp snatches the money from Heloise.

NARISSE

(to Heloise)

Thank you.

HELOISE

It's nothing.

Lucette and Chloe take Narisse inside.

PIMP

We’ll get her back on her feet.

HENRIOnly to get her on to her back, no doubt.

Heloise slaps Henri. The other students stop him from striking back.

HENRI (cont'd) (CONT’D)You’d better get your little tart home Jean-Luc, before I have her instead.

JEAN-LUC

This is Canon Fulbert’s niece.

HENRIForgive me Mademoiselle, I had no idea.

LUCETTE

Oh, look how his bravado has shriveled.

JEAN-LUC

Heloise. We've done all we can.

Heloise forces the men to stand aside as she exits with Jean-Luc following her. Lucette and Chloe come back out of the brothel.

JEROMESo, are we going to be seen to or not?

BERNARD

For pity’s sake, Jerome! I think the moment has passed.

PIMP

No, come now gentlemen, surely you can rise to the occasion?

24.

"HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?" (REPRISE)

LUCETTE AND CHLOE

(singing)

HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?NOTHING LEFT TO LOSE!

LET US TAKE THE STRAIN.YOU LOOK TO BE IN PAIN!MOSELLE WILL TAKE THE BLAME!

MOSELLE

RIGHT BETWEEN MY THIGHS THERE'S A SECRET DOOR.

YOU HAVE THE KEYS BOYS, UNLOCK THE STORE.THERE YOU'LL FIND RICHES BEYOND COMPARE!

I'LL LEAD THE WAY BOYS, AND SHOW YOU WHERE!

WHORESMOSELLE IS THE BEST!

JUST LET HER DIVESTYOU OF THAT LOAD!

HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?NOTHING LEFT TO LOSE!

HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?


25.

SCENE 7

FULBERT’S HOUSE - THE SAME NIGHT

Fulbert is with the Mother ABBESS of Argenteuil, mid to late-fifties and a young novice, MARIE-LOUISE.

ABBESSDo you always allow Heloise to roam the streets of Paris at this hour, Canon Fulbert?

FULBERT

I assure you Abbess, it is most unlike her.

ABBESSJust as well I am here to retrieve her.

Heloise and Jean-Luc enter.

HELOISE

Uncle, forgive me-- Marie-Louise! What are you doing here?

FULBERT

Where have you been?! Jean-Luc! What have you been doing till this hour?

JEAN-LUC

Sir, I assure you--

HELOISE

I attended the trial of Master DeVoe.

FULBERT

I see. Was Jean-Luc with you the whole time?

HELOISE

Of course, he did not leave my side.

ABBESSShe was chaperoned by this young man? I find that highly inappropriate.

FULBERT

I fear the Abbess is right. Jean-Luc, go. Your business here is over.

HELOISE

Uncle--- Jean-Luc...?

FULBERT

Go!

Jean-Luc exits.

26.

ABBESSYou may be too quick to blame the young man, Canon Fulbert. Heloise has always been ruled by a willful and obstinate streak. Which I assure you, I will eradicate upon her return to Argenteuil.

HELOISE

No! I’m not ready to return.

ABBESSDo not be stubborn, child. You have no dowry. Therefore you will take Holy Orders.

HELOISE

But I have no more a calling than Marie-Louise.

MARIE-LOUISE

Times have changed, Heloise. The church has now ordered that if we cannot marry, we must all become Brides of Christ.

HELOISE

I won’t do it! My only calling is to my education! Uncle Fulbert, help me.

Fulbert assesses the situation.

FULBERT

It seems you have no choice, unless of course you were to stay here as my ward?

ABBESSYour ward? What exactly does that mean?

FULBERT

Heloise, would have to agree not to leave the house unless it is by my side. She would attend me, be my companion and obey me in all things. It would be a sacred and confidential relationship. One that would bring sunshine to these dark days of mine. But perhaps I am being a sentimental old fool.

HELOISE

I see no fool in you, Uncle Fulbert.

ABBESSHeloise, I advise you to come away at once.

HELOISE

Would I be able to continue my studies?

FULBERT

Of course, you must have something to amuse you when I am busy discharging my duties.

27.

HELOISE

Then I will stay.

FULBERT

Well, Abbess, it appears your brightest star now shines in my firmament.

ABBESSMay God be your guide, Canon Fulbert.


28.

(MORE)

SCENE 8

INSIDE THE LECTURE HALL - ONE WEEK LATER

The students enter excitedly.

Jean-Luc follows on with another student who wears a hooded cloak.

HAVE YOU HEARD?" (REPRISE)

STUDENTS

(singing)


ABELARD WILL SPEAK TODAY!

ALL FALL QUIET, NOT A WORD

FOR THE GREATEST OF MEN MUST NOW BE...

Abelard enters with a pile of essays.

ABELARD

Who said, “Whoso neglects learning in his youth, loses the past and is dead for the future?”

JEROMEEuripides in Phrixus.

The other students tease him for knowing the answer.

ABELARD

Dead for the future, indeed! Then judging by these essays, I am currently standing in a morgue surrounded by the malodorous corpses of once promising students. Gentlemen! You were asked, “To which do we owe our primary allegiance, the religious laws of man, or the instrument of God - namely our individual conscience?” How ironic then that so few of you employed this sacred vessel when considering the issues of DeVoe’s decision to marry. There was one exception. I wish this student to read his essay aloud, so that the rest of you numbskulls realize that the duty of philosophy may not be to provide answers, but only to raise the next question. Jean-Luc, stand up! With this essay, you have passed from being exceptional to brilliant. Read it.

Abelard hands Jean-Luc an essay. He tries to read it aloud, but falters.

"I WONDER DID THEY SPEAK OF THIS?" (INTRO)

JEAN-LUC

(singing; apprehensively)LAST NIGHT THEY LAY ENTWINED,

29.

JEAN-LUC(cont'd)

(MORE)

APPROACHING FATE, BY CANDLE TIMED.

THEIR LAST EMBRACE FULL KNEW THE...

ABELARD

(knowingly)What’s the matter? Take courage, gentle Jean-Luc. Let us hear your voice.

JEAN-LUC

It is not my voice.

ABELARD

Pardon?

JEAN-LUC

I didn’t write this.

The students are outraged.

ABELARD

Are you saying that you’ve submitted someone else’s work as your own?

JEAN-LUC

This person is very persuasive Master Abelard.

ABELARD

This person is with you? Then stand up! Yes you, young man! Stand up!

The student removes the hooded cloak. It is Heloise.

HENRINo women in the university!

The students agree.

ABELARD

Young woman, don't you find that hollow vessels make the most sound?

(beat)Read for us.

TRACK 7 - "I WONDER DID THEY SPEAK OF THIS?"

Heloise takes the paper and reads.

HELOISE

(singing)

LAST NIGHT THEY LAY ENTWINED,

APPROACHING FATE, BY CANDLE TIMED.

THEIR LAST EMBRACE FULL KNEW THE RISK,

30.

HELOISE(cont'd)

(MORE)


WHAT POWER EXISTS IN LOVERS' ARMSTHAT WE SO FEAR THAT IT MAY CAUSE US HARM?

THIS SELFISHNESS WHICH WE CONDEMNIN LOVERS' EYES APPEARS TO THEM

A GENEROUS BOUNTY, HEAVEN SENT.

THEY SEE NO REASON TO REPENT,

BUT STUMBLE, BEWILDERED BY OUR SCORN,AND IN TONGUES, DESCRIBE A WORLD REBORN.

WE NEED TO ASK IF LOVE IS THE ANSWER,WHY IN BODY WE EXIST.

LAST NIGHT THEY LAY ENTWINED,


THE RIVER FLOODS AND YET WE DRINK.

OUR MINDS CONFORM AND YET WE THINK.

THE WIND CAN COOL OR TEAR US DOWN.

THE SEAS PROVIDE AND ALSO DROWN.WHY HAVE WE DARKNESS AND THE SUNIF NOT TO SEE THAT ALL IS ONE?

HOW CAN WE VIEW THIS HUMAN PASSION

AS DEVOID OF GOD’S COMPASSION.

WHY THIS RULE, THIS LAW? ATTITUDE?

HAVE WE NOT TURNED ON GOD AND MISCONSTRUEDTHE VERY LESSON FOR WHICH WE LIVE --IN THIS LIFE, WE EMBODY THE LOVE HE GIVES?

WHEN SOLDIERS PULLED THEM FROM THEIR BED,DID THEY SMILE OR PARTING, KISS?DID THEY KNOW WHEN THEY ENTWINED,THAT IT WOULD COME TO THIS?

AN INCANTATION SO SUBLIME

THAT LAW THEMSELVES BECOME THE CRIMETHIS LOVE TURNS DUTY ON ITS HEAD,OUR LAWS MAKE PRISON OF OUR BED.THEN WHY ALLOW THIS POWER TO EXIST?

IF GOD MEANT US ONLY TO RESIST?

I NEED TO KNOWTHAT LOVE IS THE ANSWERWHY IN BODY WE EXIST.

LAST NIGHT THEY LAY ENTWINEDI WONDER DID THEY SPEAK OF THIS?

I NEED TO KNOWIF LOVE IS THE ANSWER

THE REASON WE EXIST.

LAST NIGHT THEY LAY ENTWINED.


31.

HELOISE(cont'd)I WONDER DID THEY COUNT THE COST?WAS IT MORE THAN THEY HAVE LOST?

I NEED TO KNOW!

ABELARD

Thank you. But of course love is not the answer; it’s part of the problem. The answer is the application of reason.

HELOISE

Perhaps reason is merely the tool by which we arrive at God’s answer... Love. You men argue that reason is divine because you think it makes you objective, all seeing, like God. I find that arrogant, not to say impossible. That is why in many ways the Gods of the ancients were more appropriate to our true condition. Like us, they could not escape the influence of emotions.

HENRIObjectively, women would say that. They, like the old Gods, are primitive. That is why only men should study.

The students respond with approval as Fulbert and Bedell enter.

HELOISE

Thank you for being the perfect example of the prejudices to which I refer. You cast women as being incapable of rational thought because you fear life without us as your emotional support. You have failed to detach yourself from your mother's breast long enough to look up and realize she has a mind. Perhaps it is time you stopped sucking and grew up?

BEDELLBravo! Bravo!

FULBERT

What is going here? Stop this immediately! What is she doing here? Abelard explain yourself!

ABELARD

Erm... I find myself, for once, unable to.

FULBERT

Dismiss these students immediately. Go, go!

ABELARD

You are dismissed, gentlemen. I suggest you make haste.

The students leave, much confused by the night’s turn of events.

32.

FULBERT

(to Heloise)

You are a disgrace! Breasts! I can't believe my...breasts! You discuss...I shall not say the word again... in a public lecture hall? You made a solemn promise to me not a week ago not to leave the house and now I find you here!

ABELARD

You know each other?

FULBERT

She is my niece! Oh, and what a surprise, Jean-Luc is here! (to Heloise)

No doubt he led you astray!

JEAN-LUC

Me? I tried to stop her.

FULBERT

Quiet boy!

(to Heloise)

I see now, that like all women, your affections are treacherous. I will send you back to the Abbess at Argenteuil.

HELOISE

But I just want to learn.

ABELARD

Canon Fulbert --

FULBERT

You stay out of this!

BEDELLI would if I were you, Abelard.

ABELARD

Your niece is extremely able.

BEDELLVery well, ignore me.

HELOISE

How can I continue to learn unless I have a teacher? You forbid Jean-Luc to teach me alone therefore a public arena is surely safer? The only alternative would be to provide me with a second teacher at home.

ABELARD

One who could act as a chaperone?

33.

(MORE)

HELOISE

Precisely. A man, particularly one sworn to celibacy, would suffice?

ABELARD

But given your intelligence only the finest minds would do, and I know of no man who would be prepared to educate a mere girl.

FULBERT

Why not? If my niece is, as you say, exceptional then who has the right to refuse her?

BEDELLWho indeed?! How very enlightened of you Fulbert. If I were you I would demand the greatest mind in Europe as proof of your family's brilliance.

FULBERT

She shall have nothing less! Who do you suggest?

JEAN-LUC

Why Master Abelard of course.

FULBERT

Who asked your opinion?!

ABELARD

I couldn't possibly.

FULBERT

You would refuse me?

ABELARD

Well no, of course not, but...

FULBERT

Then it is settled. Abelard will teach you.

MY HELOISE IS BUT A GIRL OF SEVENTEENA FLOWER UPON THE EARTH YET TO BE SEEN.

FOR A MAN WHO HAS DWELT HERE AS LONG AS I,SHE BRINGS THE SUN INTO MY WINTER SKY.

FULBERT (cont'd)

MY HELOISE IS THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE.

A THING OF BEAUTY, A RARE UNPOLISHED JEWEL.SHE MUST BE CRAFTED AND BROUGHT TO SHINE.SET HER IN GOLDEN TREASURES FROM YOUR MIND.

WITH JUST REWARDS,

34.

FULBERT(cont'd)THIS IS YOUR HUMBLE TASK.

I CAN'T REFUSE HER WHAT SHE ASKS.

HELOISE

I'm not sure he's really...

FULBERT

Do not argue with me Heloise!

HELOISE

Forgive me, Uncle. I will of course abide by your wishes.

BEDELLNow young lady, given your disobedience, I suggest you accompany me to Notre-Dame where I will hear your confession. Please excuse us, Gentlemen.

FULBERT

And make sure she is thorough!

BEDELLOh, I sense she is more than ready to be humble.

FULBERT

Well, Abelard, I will expect you in the morning.

ABELARD

Very well, Canon Fulbert. I am yours to command.

Fulbert exits.

ABELARD (cont’d)

Till tomorrow, Heloise. Now Jean-Luc about the matter of your missing essay.

Abelard and Jean-Luc exit.

HELOISE

Thank you, Canon Bedell. You saved me.

Heloise kisses Bedell.

HELOISE (cont'd)

Being taught by the Mother Abbess at Argenteuil is like swimming in a dried up river bed.

Bedell pulls away from Heloise.

HELOISE (cont'd)

You know her?

BEDELLYes... A long time ago. Go now... Home to your books.

35.

HELOISE

What about my confession?

BEDELLThere are far greater sins in the world than wanting to know the truth. Go.

Heloise exits.


36.

SCENE 9

THE STREET NEAR MOSELLE’S BROTHEL - SEVERAL DAYS LATER

Narisse is trying to solicit a customer.


NARISSE

WHY NOT TRY WHAT I’VE IN STORE,

I’LL LEAVE YOU BEGGING, WANTING MORE.COME EXPLORE MY HIDDEN TREASURESGRASP AND PLUNDER...

DeVoe enters from the shadows and startles his wife.

NARISSE (cont'd) (CONT’D)What are you doing here? Go away! Someone will see us. What are you staring for?

DEVOEMy love.

NARISSE

I am not your love! I never was! Now go!

DEVOEI’ve sold the last of our belongings.

NARISSE

So what?!

DEVOECome with me. We can leave. Leave now. We can, you and I. We can! In the country, they won’t know us. I could get a job teaching. I could.

Moselle calls from inside.

MOSELLE

What’s going on out there? You’d better be working!

NARISSE

I am... Just a drunk.

MOSELLE

So, take his money.

NARISSE

He hasn’t got any! (to her husband)

Please go.

37.

DEVOE(taking out coins)

I’ll pay to talk to you. Come with me now before its gone too far... While we still have a chance of forgetting.

NARISSE

(heartbroken; but covering)

Forgetting? God doesn’t want us to forget. Don’t you understand? That’s why this happened. This is the price he is making us pay.

DEVOEThere is no God, just the devil.

NARISSE

Are you mad? Someone will hear you. Stop staring like that! I never want to see you again.

DEVOEYou loved me. Say it! You loved me!

NARISSE

I never loved you. You were just another way for me to have a roof over my head and food in my belly. And now... Now I despise you.

The Pinp appears. DeVoe throws the coins at Narisse.

DEVOEThat’s for the time it took you to tell me.

DeVoe exits.

Weeping, Narisse picks up the coins and hands them to the Pimp.


38.

SCENE 10

THE TEACHING ROOM IN FULBERT’S HOUSE (SUMMER)

Fulbert enters followed by Abelard and Jean-Luc.

FULBERT

I have had a desk brought up. This is where Heloise will sit. I trust it will be comfortable enough for you, Master Abelard?

ABELARD

Far more comfortable than the University, Canon Fulbert.

JEAN-LUC

Oh, yes indeed, we don't have --

Fulbert cuts him off with a look.

TRACK 9 - "MY HELOISE" (EXCERPT)

FULBERT

Yes, well, my Heloise is not a young ruffian for whom sparsity is in itself an education.

(singing)

SHE MUST BE CRAFTED AND BROUGHT TO SHINESET IN THE GOLDEN TREASURE FROM YOUR MIND.

WITH JUST REWARDS,THIS IS YOUR HUMBLE TASK.

I CAN'T REFUSE HER WHAT SHE ASKS.

ABELARD

Well... Let’s see how well Jean-Luc has taught you Latin.

Fulbert exits. Outside the room, he sings to himself.

FULBERT

MY HELOISE IS BUT A GIRL OF SEVENTEENA FLOWER UPON THE EARTH YET TO BE SEEN.

FOR A MAN WHO HAS DWELT HERE AS LONG AS I...

TRACK 9 - "OMNE ADEO GENUS"

Abelard begins with a translation.

ABELARD

(singing; in Latin)OMNE ADEO GENUSIN TERRA HOMINUMQUE...

39.

HELOISE

(translating)

THUS EVERY RACE UPON THE EARTH...MEN AND BEASTS...

ABELARD

ET GENUS AEQUOREUM...

HELOISE

AND CREATURES OF THE SEA...

ABELARD

PECUDES PICTAEQUE VOLUCRES...

HELOISE

THE HERDS AND BIRDS OF BRILLIANT HUE...

ABELARD

IN FURIAS INGEMQUE RUUNT...

JEAN-LUC

(eager to join in)

ARE SWEPT WITH FIERY FEELINGS.

Abelard and Heloise laugh at his expense.

HELOISE

"Passion."(teasing)

Are swept with 'passion'.

JEAN-LUC

(correcting, meekly)“Are swept with Passion.”

ABELARD

AMOR OMNIBUS IDEM.

ABELARD, HELOISE,JEAN-LUC LOVE IS THE SAME FOR ALL.

THE LIGHTS SHIFT TO:

THE TOWN SQUARE - SEVERAL DAYS LATER

Several Townsfolk overhear as the Students gripe about their master.

"PLAYING WITH FIRE" (INTRO)

40.

(MORE)

HENRI, BERNARD AND JEROME(singing)

OUR MASTER HAS NO TIME LEFT FOR US.

WHO IS HE TEACHING INSTEAD?HIS REASON ONCE ROSE WITH THE MORNINGNOW IT CAN'T GET OUT OF BED.

Townsfolk, Moselle and the whores gossip about Abelard and Heloise.

"HAVE YOU HEARD?" (REPRISE)

TOWNSFOLK(singing)

HAVE YOU HEARDHAVE YOU HEARDHAVE YOU HEARD WHAT THEY SAY?

ABELARD SLEEPS LATE TODAY!

HAVE YOU HEARD THE GOSSIP ON THE STREET?

HE HAS DECIDED TO TEACH A GIRL, SO SWEET!

MOSELLE

THIS MAN OF FAITH, HE HAS NO EYES!

FOR IF WE WOMEN WERE HIS PRIZE,

I COULD HAVE WOOED HIM INTO MY BED.

SO TELL ME WHY DID HE CHOOSE THIS GIRL INSTEAD?

TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARD WHAT THEY SAY?ABELARD SLEEPS LATE TODAY!

MOSELLE

CAN'T BELIEVE IT!

TOWNSFOLKHAS SHE FANNED THE FIREOF ABELARD’S DESIRE?

THE LIGHTS SHIFT BACK TO:

THE TEACHING ROOM IN FULBERT'S HOUSE - A WEEK LATER - EVENING

TRACK 10 - "MY HELOISE" (REPRISE)

Abelard and Jean-Luc listens as Heloise argues a lesson.

HELOISE

(singing)

FOR THE CREATION OF THE WOMAN SURPASSES MAN.IN PARADISE SHE WAS MADE BY GOD’S OWN HAND.

41.

HELOISE(cont'd)FOR THE MAN WAS NOT CREATED WITHIN THAT PLACE

YOU TURN FROM GOD IF YOU DENY ALL WOMEN GRACE.

JEAN-LUC

But it was Eve who tempted Adam and caused us to be expelled from Paradise.

HELOISE

Perhaps temptations are the things that drive us forward. They are the instigators of civilization... The genesis of our creativity and therefore of change.

JEAN-LUC

But that would make being expelled from the garden of Eden a necessary evil?

HELOISE

What other rational explanation is there?

JEAN-LUC

I don’t understand.

HELOISE

We know that evil existed in paradise.

ABELARD

Because the snake was already there.

HELOISE

Precisely! If God created everything in the garden, then he also created the snake. God created evil.

JEAN-LUC

No!

HELOISE

Yes!

ABELARD

But you argued that temptation is not inherently evil.

HELOISE

That's right, it is part of God’s plan. He understands the need for temptation. That's why He had to create Eve. Adam was just sitting around eating all day. Women, are therefore an instrument of God in a much more creative way than men are. In fact until a man has a woman he isn't properly alive at all. Wouldn't you agree?

JEAN-LUC

Master Abelard, I must protest!

ABELARD

What is it Jean-Luc?

42.

(MORE)

JEAN-LUC

If Canon Fulbert knew that we were teaching Heloise to think like this then...

ABELARD

I rather think that Heloise is teaching us, Jean-Luc.

(to Helosie)

Besides “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.”

HELOISE

But the point of philosophy is not just to observe but to act.

ABELARD (cont'd)What a tempting idea. Jean-Luc, I think it would aid Heloise’s rapid progress if you were to study and prepare a little better.

JEAN-LUC

What do you--?

ABELARD

Perhaps you would be so good as to prepare a paper on the history of temptation.

JEAN-LUC

The history of...? I'm not sure I... What period?

ABELARD

Oh, lets say from the creation to the present day.

JEAN-LUC

But what about--

ABELARD

I will take Heloise’s lessons in the interim. It is more important that you catch up. Very good. That is all for today.


THE TOWN SQUARE/THE LECTURE HALL/THE STREET NEAR MOSELLE’S BROTHEL (SEVERAL WEEKS LATER)


TOWNSFOLK(singing)


ABELARD WORKS NIGHT AND DAY!IT'S A SCANDAL!

43.

TOWNSFOLK(cont'd)HAVE YOU SEEN, IT'S SUCH A SIGHT!THE CANDLES BURN ON INTO THE NIGHT.

TRACK 11 - "PLAYING WITH FIRE"

HENRI, BERNARD AND JEROMEOUR MASTER IS PLAYING WITH FIRE

TOWNSFOLKIT’S A SCANDAL!

HENRI, BERNARD AND JEROME (cont'd) (CONT’D)

IGNORING THE SACRED HEART!

WE MEN ARE LEFT DESERTEDWHILE HE TINKERS WITH HIS TART!

JEAN-LUC

QUIET! HOW DARE YOU INSULT HIM?

YOU SLANDER OUR MASTER'S NAME.

HIS IS A SPIRIT OF BEAUTY

AND HE WILL SOON BE HERE AGAIN.

Moselle, Lucette and Chloe enter.


MOSELLE

THIS MAN OF FAITH, THIS GENTLE SOUL

FOR IF WE WOMEN WERE HIS GOAL

LUCETTE AND CHLOE

YOU COULD HAVE WOOED HIM INTO YOUR ARMS

AND KEPT HIM AWAY FROM ALL THIS HARM!

"HAVE YOU HEARD? (REPRISE)

TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARDHAVE YOU HEARDHAVE YOU HEARD WHAT THEY SAY?

ABELARD WORKS NIGHT AND DAY.IT'S A SCANDAL!CLOSE THE DOOR AND CURTAINS DRAWN...AND CURTAINS DRAWN...

AND CURTAINS DRAWN...

THE SCANDAL WILL RISE UP WITH THE DAWN!


44.

THE TEACHING ROOM IN FULBERT’S HOUSE - A FEW DAYS LATER. ABELARD SITS, HELOISE STANDS. THE ROLES ARE REVERSED.

ABELARD

Isn't the highest form of human love one which mirrors that of the love of God? A spiritual love? Platonic?

HELOISEThen why give us bodies? If God had intended us to love like that then he has a very cruel sense of humour. Personally I don't think God was being cruel, I think he was being absolutely lovely to us. When Devoe and his wife were in the heat of their passion, writhing upon their...

ABELARD

Yes, yes, I understand that much.

HELOISE

...Perhaps they were closer to God than we have ever been?

ABELARD

Yet we've always been taught that denial elevates us.

HELOISE

Justice elevates us. Denial destroys creation. Look at God, he never denies himself his creativity, on the contrary he's endlessly fecund and passionate, a red sky here, a forest there. One could even say he's positively promiscuous. If you think human love should mirror God's, then it would be a sin not to be.

Abelard is amused by her logic.

HELOISE (cont’d) (CONT’D)What?

ABELARD

You.

HELOISE

Don't you want to know what it feels like to be at the very heart, in the very moment of creation? The heat and the movement? Wearing the universe like a skin? What? Why look so sad?

ABELARD

Because...

HELOISE

What?

Heloise goes to him

45.

ABELARD

Because, I am not you. Young like you... You won't make the same mistakes I’ve made. I love you for that. Your courage. I thought denial would set me free, in fact its become my prison.

HELOISE

Its not too late to free yourself.

ABELARD

Isn't it? Everyone now expects me to be "Peter Abelard".

HELOISE

Well I won't. Actually, I'm not really sure I like "Peter Abelard", but I adore you, you sad, sad old man.

Heloise strokes his hair.

ABELARD

How do I get out of this prison?

HELOISE

If you like, you hold the key within your grasp.

"MONTAGE" (INTRO)

HELOISE (cont’d)

(singing)

HOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBE?

ABELARD

(singing)

WHY HAVE I NEVER FELT LIKE THIS BEFORE?

HELOISE

A BODY TURN TO SPIRIT BEFORE MY EYES?

ABELARD

SHE TAKES MY HAND

AND SHE LEADS ME THROUGH THE DOOR.

HELOISE

TANGIBLE FLESH TRANSFORMS TO PRESENCEAND MORTAL HUMAN, BECOMES IN ESSENCESOMETHING I ...

ABELARD

MY TEMPTATION IS GROWING...

Fulbert appears in another room.

46.

FULBERT

MY HELOISE...

ABELARD AND HELOISE

WHAT CHEMISTRY IS WORKING HERE?

I LOSE ALL SENSE WHEN YOU APPEAR.

FULBERT

IS THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE.

ABELARD AND HELOISE

MY RESTLESS SPIRIT WON’T CONFORMWITHIN THIS BODY I WAS LOSTNOW I’M REBORN.

TRACK 12 - "MONTAGE" (EXCERPT)

FULBERT

MY HELOISE IS BUT A GIRL OF SEVENTEEN

Jean-Luc appears on the street.

ABELARD, HELOISE, JEAN-LUCHOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBE?

FULBERT

A FLOWER UPON THE EARTH YET TO BE SEEN.

ABELARD, HELOISE, JEAN-LUCANSWERS TURN TO QUESTIONS BEFORE MY EYES.

FULBERT

FOR A MAN WHO HAS DWELT HERE AS LONG AS ISHE BRINGS THE SUN INTO MY WINTER SKY.

JEAN-LUC

I WAS SURE, NOW I AM LOST!

ABELARD AND HELOISE

WITHIN THIS BODY I WAS LOST.NOW I’M REBORN!

FULBERT

MY HELOISE IS BUT A GIRL OF SEVENTEENA PURER HEART, AND A MIND I’VE NEVER SEEN.

The students appear in the lecture hall.

HENRI, BERNARD AND JEROMEOUR MASTER IS PLAYING WITH FIRE.

47.

ABELARD, HELOISE, JEAN-LUCHOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBE?

FULBERT

FOR A MAN WHO HAS DWELT HERE AS LONG AS I,SHE BRINGS THE SUN INTO MY WINTER SKY.

HENRI, BERNARD, JEROME

WE MEN ARE LEFT DESERTED...

FULBERT

TO DENY HER, I'D TURN FROM HEAVEN'S DOOR.

GROUP #1: ABELARD, HELOISE, FULBERT, JEAN-LUC


Lucette, Chloe and Narisse appear on the street near Moselle’s brothel.

HENRI, BERNARD, JEROME, LUCETTE, CHLOE AND NARISSE

HE CALLS OUT...

ALL

MY HELOISE...!

The Mother Abbess, Bedell, DeVoe and Moselle appear in various locations.

ABBESS & ALBERIC

GOD GAVE US A TASK, AN ORDER TO LIFE...

DEVOE AND NARISSE

I NEED TO KNOW IF LOVE IS THE ANSWER...

Townsfolk appear to gossip.

GROUP #2: BEDELL, MOSELLE, LUCETTE, CHLOE, DEVOE AND NARISSE, HENRI, BERNARD, JEROME AND TOWNSFOLK

AND NOW A SCANDAL WILL RISE UP WITH THE DAWN...

ABELARD AND FULBERT

SHE TAKES MY HAND AND SHE LEADS ME THROUGH THE DOOR.

GROUP #2

WITH THE DAWN...

THIS IS A SCANDAL WE INSIST!WHY HAS HE NEVER FELT LIKE THIS BEFORE?

48.

GROUP #1


JEAN-LUC

HOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBE...?

GROUP #1

LOVE...!

GROUP #2

SCANDAL AND SCORN RISE WITH THE MORN!

JEAN-LUC (cont'd)

HOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBE...?

GROUP #1


GROUP #2

THIS IS A SCANDAL WE INSIST!

ALL

WHY HAVE I NEVER FELT LIKE THIS...?

WHY HAS HE NEVER FELT LIKE THIS...?


ABELARD'S ROOM - IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING

Abelard and Heloise kiss passionately and begin to undress one another. Abelard suddenly stops her.

ABELARD

Stop!

HELOISE

What? Why?

ABELARD

Its wrong. A betrayal. Of you. Trust.

HELOISE

THAT KISS YOU CANNOT TAKE AWAY

YOU WISH WE COULD GO BACK A DAY

DENY ME BUT YOUR HEART WILL SAY

THAT EVERYTHING WAS CHANGED BY JUST ONE KISS

Heloise angrily does up her clothes.

ABELARD

Where are you going?

49.

HELOISE

Argenteuil.

ABELARD (cont’d)

No!

HELOISE

I can't have what I want. Obviously, I'm not enough for you.

Heloise exits the room.

ABELARD

I CANNOT HAVE THE THING I CRAVE

OUR LOVE LIES IN AN EARLY GRAVE

TO MEMORY, I AM ENSLAVEDFOR EVERYTHING WAS CHANGED JUST BY ONE KISS

Heloise sings, in the street.

HELOISE

I AM NOT WHO I USED TO BE

THE MIRROR SHOWS IT IS NOT ME

ABELARD

I AM NOT WHO I USED TO BE

ONE MOMENT TURNED ALL HISTORY

HELOISE

THE KEY NO LONGER FITS THE LOCK

THE HANDS CANNOT TURN BACK THE CLOCK

ABELARD

I TRY TO WALK BACK THROUGH THAT DOOR...

BOTH

BUT I AM NOT THAT PERSON ANYMOREFOR EVERYTHING WAS CHANGED BY JUST ONE KISS.

HELOISE

SO TURN YOUR BACK DON’T MEET MY EYE

ABELARD

WE’LL BE POLITE WHILE GESTURES LIE

HELOISE

IN COMPANY

BOTH

WE’LL BOTH DENY,

THAT EVERYTHING WAS CHANGED BY JUST ONE KISS.


50.

SCENE 11

THE TOWN SQUARE - SEVERAL DAYS LATER

Fulbert and Canon Alberic enter.

FULBERT

She just ran away and left me, barely a word.

ALBERIC

And what about Abelard?

FULBERT

He said he's been neglecting his students and can no longer instruct Heloise.

ALBERIC

Just as well. How you could have that heathen teaching your niece is beyond me. At least the rumors will now abate.

FULBERT

What rumors?

Bedell, in his best vestments, enters.

ALBERIC

Bedell, you're dressed!

BEDELLWell, so I am! I thought I would celebrate the return of our benign Archbishop De Leves from Rome.

ALBERIC

Benign? The man is a despot. Have you heard his latest mission? The word is, we are to take the Bible to the unenlightened poor by putting on a 'play'. He now expects us to be bawdy entertainers.

BEDELLBut Canon Alberic, for you the altar has always been a stage, a didactic one at that. By the way, Fulbert, are the rumors true?

BISHOP DE LEVES, 50's, enters.

FULBERT

What rumors?

ALBERIC

Bishop De Leves, thank God for your safe return. How was Rome?

51.

BISHOP DE LEVESDeeply troubling. But I have come back inspired to return the Church to the people in a way that they will understand. Gentlemen, we are going to have a 'play' which will explain the mystery of creation.

ALBERIC

A 'play'! What a wonderful idea! A play, Canon Fulbert!

BEDELLWhy, Canon Fulbert, given your natural propensity for histrionics, you should take the lead.

FULBERT

My natural what?

BISHOP DE LEVESYou should play archangel Gabriel!

FULBERT

(flattered)Archangel Gabriel?

ALBERIC

Fulbert, an archangel?

FULBERT

And why not?

BISHOP DE LEVESWe will need torches for light and... incense to create the mists. And let there be stars in the firmament. And of course we'll need swarms of living creatures...

ALBERIC

"All the creatures that walk upon the face of the earth"?

Lucette and Chloe enter.

BISHOP DE LEVESI'll leave that in your capable hands.

BEDELL(seeing the whores)

And of course we'll need some angels!

ALBERIC

(dryly)Perfect.

BISHOP DE LEVESWhere's Abelard? We need some inspiration. Speaking of Abelard, Fulbert, are these rumors true?

52.

FULBERT

What rumors?


THE CONVENT AT ARGENTEUIL/ABELARD’S QUARTERS IN PARIS

Heloise, dressed as a novice, prays.

TRACK 13 "O QUANTA QUALIA"

NUNS

(singing; in Latin)O, QUANTA QUALIA.

SUNT ILLA SABATA.

The Mother Abbess and nuns enter in procession.

NUNS (cont'd) (CONT’D)

BEHOLD THE BIRTH OF EVENING,THE HUE OF HEAVEN'S LIGHT.

MAY LOVE OF GOD PREVAILUNTO THE CALM OF NIGHT.

ABBESSBEHOLD THE BIRTH OF EVENING,

NUNS

BEHOLD THE CHILD OF NIGHT.

ABBESSOH, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

ABBESS AND NUNSHEAR US.

MAY LOVE OF GOD PREVAIL.HEAR US.

MAY LOVE OF GOD PREVAIL.HEAR US.

MAY LOVE OF GOD PREVAIL...

MOTHER ABBESS

TILL THE LIGHT OF MORNING.

ABBESS AND NUNSWE KNOW THE CALM OF NIGHT.

Marie-Louise crosses over to Heloise and kneels beside her.

MARIE-LOUISE

Is it true?

53.

HELOISE

What?

MARIE-LOUISE

Ssh! The Abbess has forbidden us to speak to you until you have served, "A period of prayer and reflection".But it's so boring!... Well is it true?

HELOISE

Is what true?

MARIE-LOUISE

We heard that you were being tutored by Master Peter Abelard. Well, were you?

HELOISE

Yes.

MARIE-LOUISE

What is he like? I hear he reads poems that shouldn’t be read. You know, about...? You know! Greeks wrote them! And Romans. Did he read any to you?

HELOISE

Yes, they were gloriously obscene.

MARIE-LOUISE

Oh!... I know some of his songs! Shall I sing you one to you?

HELOISE

No. Please.

MARIE-LOUISE

I didn't think you'd come back. At least now we'll take Holy Orders together. I didn't want to do it on my own.

HELOISE

I can’t. I can’t.

The Abbess enters and sees them.

ABBESSMarie-Louise! I gave clear instructions. Your willfulness will not be tolerated. You will fast for three days. Go!

Marie-Louise hurries off. The Abbess approaches Heloise.

ABBESS (cont'd) (CONT’D)Forgive her, Heloise. I will make sure that you remain in silence whilst you prepare to deny all worldly vanity and submit yourself to your new life.

54.

The Abbess stands watch.

THE LIGHTS COME UP ON:

Abelard’s quarters in Paris. Abelard lies half naked in his bed. Empty flagons of wine litter the floor. Bedell enters.

BEDELLOh, dear God, I see I needn’t have bothered to bring wine! Abelard! Abelard! Wake up.

ABELARD

Wine? You’ve brought...? How did YOU manage to carry wine up those stairs?

BEDELLWhere there is a will, there is invariably a way. Do come in Jean Luc.

(Jean Luc staggers in with flagon’s of wine)

JEAN-LUC

Master.

Bedell takes a flagon.

BEDELLBesides the beauty of wine is that unlike any other burden it gets lighter along the way. Isn’t that so Jean-Luc?

Bedell drinks.

BEDELL (CONT’D)Right lets get him to his feet

Bedell and Jean-Luc get Abelard to his feet. Bedell pushes Abelard’s face into a basin of the water and holds it there.

BEDELL (CONT’D)I call this a baptism of fire!

Bedell lets Abelard come up for air.

BEDELL (cont'd) (CONT’D)Pass me that cloth.

Jean-Luc hands Bedell a cloth and he begins to vigorously dry Abelard, bringing him to his senses.

Jean-Luc watches.

55.

BEDELL (cont'd) (CONT’D)Jean-Luc is most unhappy, Abelard.

ABELARD

Oh, really? Why would that be, Jean-Luc?

BEDELLHe says that you are constantly missing your lectures. The whole of Paris, it seems, has drawn the conclusion that your attention to the education of Heloise has gone into unnecessary detail.

JEAN-LUC

I've told them it's rubbish, Master.

ABELARD

She is the finest student I have ever had the privilege of teaching. Perhaps it is the inadequacy of these young men that needs addressing.

JEAN-LUC

Exactly. I tried to explain.

ABELARD

Anyway, she has gone to Argenteuil! I am no longer teaching her.

BEDELLVery good. Your reputation is well provided for with friends such as Jean-Luc. Take the bowl and cloth, boy.

Jean-Luc exits with the bowl and cloth. Bedell hands Abelard a shirt.

BEDELL (cont'd) (CONT’D)How far has this gone, Abelard?

ABELARD

How far has what...?

BEDELLPlay the boy for a fool but spare me the indignity!

ABELARD

I've done nothing I'm ashamed of.

BEDELLOh really? Are you telling me that this girl has not fallen entirely in love with you?

ABELARD

Yes, I believe she --

56.

BEDELLShe was your pupil -- entrusted to your care!

ABELARD

I know. I know. I didn’t mean to harm her.

BEDELLLet me hear your confession, Peter. Then you'll know it has to stop.

Abelard kneels

TRACK 14 - "WHISPER MY NAME"

ABELARD

(singing)

FIRST THING IN THE MORNING

AND LAST THING AT NIGHT,AS I FEEL MY EYES CLOSING

SHE COMES INTO SIGHT.

At Argenteuil, Heloise sings.

MY FIRST THOUGHT,

AND LAST.

HELOISE

EACH TIME THAT I PRAYIN EACH SONG, IN EACH SILENCE

EACH WORD THAT I SAY,

EVERY SOUND IS THE SAME...

MY FIRST THOUGHT.

AND LAST.

Jean-Luc re-enters.

ABELARD

I'VE TRIED NOT TO LOVE HER,TO FIND EVERY FLAW.

HELOISE

BUT EACH FAULT THAT I FIND,I DESIRE HIM MORE.

ABELARD

EVERY MOMENT...

ABELARD AND HELOISE

CAN YOU HEAR ME...WHISPER YOUR NAME?WHISPER YOUR NAME?

The Abbess is overcome by Heloise's revelation. She sits.

57.

HELOISEFIRST THING IN THE MORNING

AND LAST THING AT NIGHTAS I FEEL MY EYES CLOSING

YOU COME INTO SIGHT.

ABELARD

FIRST THING...

AND LAST...

I FEEL YOU IN...

BOTH

MY FIRST THOUGHT.

MY LAST THOUGHT.

ABELARDEACH TIME THAT I PRAY,IN EACH SONG, IN EACH SILENCE,

EACH WORD THAT I SAY

EVERY SOUND IS THE SAME.

HELOISE

EACH TIME I PRAY...

EACH WORD I SAY...

BOTH

MY FIRST THOUGHT.

MY LAST THOUGHT...IS WHISPERING YOUR NAME TO ME!

WHISPER MY NAME!

HELOISE

(whispering)

Abelard...

The Abbess holds and comforts her.

ABBESSI loved once.

HELOISE

How did you make it stop?

JEAN-LUC

You love her!? Why? How could you?

ABBESSI have never found a way to stop.

BEDELLNot a word of this to anyone, Jean-Luc!


58.

SCENE 13

PARIS - ON THE STREET NEAR MOSELLE'S BROTHEL - NIGHT

Lucette and Chloe are fighting over a purse of money. Moselle follows them on.

CHLOEGive it here, you bitch!

LUCETTE

He was my customer!

CHLOEHe asked for me!

LUCETTE

He's always been my customer.

CHLOEMaybe that's his problem!

MOSELLE

What are you trying to do, scare the customers away? Give it to me!

As she takes the purse, Jean-Luc enters.

MOSELLE (cont'd) (CONT’D)Well, what are you waiting for? Get on your backs and get busy!

Lucette and Chloe cross to Jean-Luc.


LUCETTE AND CHLOE

(singing)

WHY NOT COME INTO MY BOUDOIR?

MOSELLE

Jean-Luc!

LUCETTE AND CHLOE

LETS SEE WHAT KIND OF MAN YOU ARE.

MOSELLE

Isn’t it about time you knew what love is?

JEAN-LUC

Yes!

59.

LUCETTE AND CHLOE

DREAMS COME TRUE MY LITTLE BABY

MOSELLE

COME LIE WITHIN THIS LADIES ARMSI’LL BE ROUGH AND LEAVE YOU BLEEDINGOR LIKE A VIRGIN SHY AND PLEADING.

JEAN-LUC

No! Stop.

MOSELLE

What’s the matter?

JEAN-LUC

I... Nothing! I... I haven’t got any money!

MOSELLE

Come back when you have, little man. I’ll make more than your cheeks blush next time.

Moselle laughs as Jean-Luc runs off.

LUCETTE AND CHLOE

HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?HOW CAN YOU REFUSE?


60.

(MORE)

SCENE 14

THE CONVENT OF ARGENTEUIL - A FEW DAY LATER

DeVoe emerges from the shadows, exhausted.

NUNS

(singing; in Latin)O, QUANTA QUALIA.

SUNT ILLA SABATA.

QUE SEMPER CELEBRATSUPERNA CURIA.

Heloise and Marie-Louise enter with food and water. They cross to DeVoe.

MARIE-LOUISE

Here, sir... Some bread and cheese. The Abbess has asked that you eat and then be on your way.

DEVOETell her... Thank her, for her charity.

HELOISE

Master DeVoe, is that you?

DEVOENo, no, you are mistaken.

MARIE-LOUISE

You know him?

HELOISE

Here, drink this. I was at your trial. I met your wife. I tried to help.

DeVoe gets up to leave.

HELOISE (CONT’D)

No, stay, rest. You’re safe.

DEVOEThere was only one place I was ever safe... And that heart now beats alone in Paris... A long way from me.

The Abbess enters.

HELOISE

Your wife...? She must have loved you very much.

DEVOELove...? A blind man tangled in briar? The more one struggles, the more entangled one becomes.

61.

DEVOE(cont'd)That’s the beauty of it... The pain. But the world is just a spiteful child pulling the wings off love. Yet it knows everything about hatred, jealousy, war.

MARIE-LOUISE

What is he saying?

DEVOEWhat am I saying? I’m saying this... Get away from here! You’re young. Here love is an idea that can never be consummated. Consummate. Make love! Be cherished... Animal. Be beautiful in sweat streaked skin, red from grasping! Risk everything! Because love thwarted brings only madness to the world. Love is our only hope.

DeVoe sees the Abbess and leaves.

Heloise removes her novice's headdress.

MARIE-LOUISE

Heloise, no!

ABBESSMarie-Louise, leave us.

Marie-Louise exits.

Heloise hands her novice's headdress to the Abbess as she sings.

TRACK 15 - "THIS GENTLE LOVE"

HELOISE

(singing)

THERE SEEMS NO VIRTUE IN HONESTY.I AM BLINDED BY ALL I SEE.

I CANNOT HEAR WHAT IS DEAFENING,I SEEK AN END, YET CAN'T BEGIN.

I CANNOT RUN, THOUGH I TRY TO LEAVE.I CANNOT LIE, NOR THIS TRUTH BELIEVE.EXQUISITE PAIN, THIS BURNING BALM,

THIS TERRIFYING BEAUTY, TORMENTED CALM...

I CRAVE RELEASE AND CAN'T RESISTA MOMENT'S PEACE. MAKE IT DESIST.EACH PARTING TEAR, EACH FAREWELL KISS,

JUST BRINGS US NEAR TO THIS ABYSS.

I'D RATHER DIE THAN LOSEA MOMENT OF BEAUTY GAINED.THIS GENTLE LOVE, EXQUISITE PAIN!

62.

ABBESSTORMENT ENTRAPS AND MAKES US FOOLS.

WE'RE NOT THE ARTIST, BUT MERELY TOOLS.

BOTH

EXQUISITE PAIN,THIS BURNING BALM

THIS TERRIFYING BEAUTY,TORMENTED CALM!

I CRAVE RELEASE AND CAN'T RESISTA MOMENT'S PEACE. MAKE IT DESIST.EACH PARTING TEAR, EACH FAREWELL KISSJUST BRINGS US NEAR TO THIS ABYSS.

I'D RATHER DIE THAN LOSEA MOMENT OF BEAUTY GAINED!

I CAN'T REFUSE, WHAT I HAVE NAMEDTHIS GENTLE LOVE, EXQUISITE PAIN!

ABBESSWhat if he lacks the courage to love you?

HELOISE

I cannot lack the courage to find out.

Heloise embraces the Abbess and exits as the nuns take up their prayer.

"O QUANTA QUALIA" (REPRISE)

NUNS

(singing)

O QUANTA QUALIA...THE HUE OF HEAVEN'S LIGHT.

MAY LOVE OF GOD PREVAIL.UNTO CALM OF NIGHT!

ABBESS...TILL THE LIGHT OF MORNING.


63.

SCENE 15

PARIS - THE TOWN SQUARE - A FEW DAYS LATER - TWILIGHT

Townsfolk, students, monks and nuns are preparing for Fulbert’s play. Moselle, dressed as an angel, Lucette and Chloe are eager to participate.

Fulbert, dressed as Archangel Gabriel, gives instructions near Canon Alberic.

FULBERT

Set those trees over there. And we'll need more torches.

ALBERIC

This is utterly demeaning.

CHLOECan we join in?

ALBERIC

Good God!

MOSELLE

Need any angels?

BERNARD

Not any fallen angels!

MOSELLE

Why not? I've shown you heaven!

JEROMEWe do need animals.

LUCETTE

Chloe, that's your specialty!

CHLOEYou shut up!

LUCETTE

No, you shut up!

MOSELLE

Enough!

FULBERT

No whores in the play!

MOSELLE

But, sir --

64.

Bedell enters, crossing to Fulbert.

FULBERT (cont'd)

I said, I’ve had enough of you whores!

BEDELLReally 'Archangel Gabriel'? Surely, it’s a little early in the evening to be saying that!

Bishop De Leves enters.

BISHOP DE LEVESGood evening, gentlemen.

FULBERT

Ah, Bishop De Leves!

ALBERIC

We have arranged for you to sit near me.

They formally greet the Bishop.

BISHOP DE LEVESI see you've got everyone involved. Even the most humble! Excellent work, Fulbert.

ALBERIC

(covering)Oh, well yes... I want everyone to join us for the Feast of The Assumption.

MOSELLE

Because we're all God's children!

ALBERIC

Quite right, my child.

FULBERT

(to Moselle)

Bless you. Now do hurry along.

ALBERIC

(aside; to a student)

Keep them in the back!

Moselle crosses away as Abelard enters.

MOSELLE

(flirting)Hello, Master Abelard!

ABELARD

Not now, my angel.

65.

MOSELLE

All right, I'll be waiting for you in the clouds -- with my thunder!

CANON FULBERT

No doubt that will come with a clap!

BISHOP DE LEVESFulbert! I do believe you've made a joke! Master Abelard, Fulbert just make a joke!

ABELARD

Really, Bishop? That doesn't surprise me. Archangel Gabriel was renown for his sense of humor.

BISHOP DE LEVESIndeed he was. Fulbert, am I to have a part? It needn't be anything too grand. I wouldn't want to clip your wings.

FULBERT

Canon Alberic, show the Bishop his role.

BEDELLAbelard, I need to speak with you alone.

BISHOP DE LEVESWell, hurry! If you miss my performance there will be an almighty penance to pay!

Fulbert exits with a small group as the Bishop exits with Canon Alberic.

BEDELLAbelard, I have bad news. The Mother Abbess of Argenteuil informs me that Heloise is returning.

ABELARD

When? When?

BEDELLThat is hardly the responsible reaction.

ABELARD

When, Bedell?

BEDELLTonight.

ABELARD

I cannot deny my joy. I've been lost without --

BEDELLLost to temptation?

66.

ABELARD

No! My eyes are finally open.

BEDELLAnd you are blinded by what you see! You -- the master of logic with a mind that has set the century ablaze!

ABELARD

Perhaps I am seeing new things in life!

BEDELLSome day, maybe hundreds of years from now, another will speak of reason as you have and they will handle his work as though it were the Ark of the Covenant. And where will Abelard be? Forgotten. Erased. A deserter from that little band of immortals who alone give a measure of meaning to man's existence. And for what? A woman?

ABELARD

What hope have you of understanding?

TRACK 16 - "WHAT HOPE HAVE I?"

BEDELL(singing)

WHAT HOPE HAVE I OF UNDERSTANDING?

WHILE GROWING OLD,THE HEART STAYS YOUNG.

MY MEMORIES ARISE FROM PLACES ASHEN

ALWAYS TEMPTING ME TO LIVE AGAIN IN PASSION.

I REMEMBER NOW, MANY YEARS AGO,

THE SUNLIGHT ON THE SEINE,

HOW IT LIT HER FACE AS HER HAIR FELL DOWN.SHE SAID WE'D NEVER BE THE SAME.

THE RIVER FLOWED AS WE LAY STILL.WORDS RIPPLED IN THE AIR.

RETURNING TO THE JEALOUS WORLD,WE LEFT OUR LOVE TO LINGER THERE.

DOES SHE REMEMBER ME AS I DO HER,WHEN WALKING BY THE SEINE?

HOW WE KISSED GOODBYE TO THE JEALOUS WORLDAND WE NEVER WERE THE SAME.

NO MAN CAN LEARN FROM HIS FATHER'S LIFE,

HE HAS HIS OWN REFRAIN.WHICH HE MUST SING IN HIS OWN SWEET WAY,

BUT HE WILL NEVER FEEL THE SAME.

At Argenteuil, the Mother Abbess appears brushing her hair.

67.

BEDELL (cont'd) (CONT’D)WHAT HOPE HAD WE OF UNDERSTANDING?

WHILE GROWING OLD, THE HEART STAYS YOUNG.MY MEMORIES APPEAR WITHOUT COMPASSION,

ALWAYS TEMPTING ME TO LIVE AGAIN IN PASSION!

WHAT HOPE HAVE I?

WHAT HOPE HAVE I?

WHAT HOPE IN THIS JEALOUS WORLD, TO EVER FEEL AGAIN?HOW WE LOVERS LAY, WHEN YOUR TUMBLING HAIR...

CAUGHT THE LIGHT OF THE RIVER SEINE?

The image fades on the Abbess.

ABELARD

You knew love?

BEDELLYes, why? Did you think you'd invented it?

ABELARD

But how could you destroy it?

BEDELLI had responsibilities -- a vocation.

ABELARD

Oh really? Tell me, Bedell! Is the reason you want me to reject Heloise because of my vocation, or because you might have to admit that you made a tragic mistake all those years ago?

BEDELLNo, I made the right decision -- for the both of us.

ABELARD

Did you? And did God intend for you to end up as a bitter, drunken priest who cannot even pray anymore?

BEDELLAbelard...

ABELARD

No! I'm not listening to you! I have devoted myself to the interpretation of life and in so doing, have forgotten to live it. I only hope that she has not turned away from me.

Abelard exits.

BEDELLWhat hope have I?

BLACKOUT.

68.

SCENE 16

THE TOWN SQUARE - LATER THAT NIGHT

The performers gather. Moselle and her girls try to fit in, but soon get carried away.

ENSEMBLE

Bring the torches! Take your places. Over there! Remember what I said! Don't forget the torches!

LUCETTE

Hurry up! They're starting!

In the darkness, Moselle is nearly knocked over.

MOSELLE

Hey, watch it!

JEROMESorry!

BERNARD

Move!

CHLOEI can't see. Where are you?

Fulbert, still dressed as Archangel Gabriel, enters. The performance begins.

Complementing Fulbert's stylized speech-like oration, the ensemble echoes Fulbert's text, singing in a grand cantata formation.

TRACK 17 - "THE MYSTERY PLAY"

FULBERT

(reciting; grandly)IN THE BEGINNING GOD CREATEDTHE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH...

ENSEMBLE

(singing)

IN THE BEGINNING... (etc.)

LUCETTE

(to Chloe; fumbling)Over here!

69.

CHLOEIt's too dark!

FULBERT

THE EARTH WAS WITHOUT FORM AND VOID.DARKNESS WAS UPON THE FACE OF THE DEEP...

FULBERT (cont'd)

GOD CREATED THE LIGHT…

A flash of light startles Lucette as torches light the stage.

LUCETTE

Fire!

CHLOELook out!

A procession of torchbearers crosses, nearly setting Moselle on fire.

FULBERT

HE SEPARATED THE LIGHT

FROM THE DARKNESS...

MOSELLE

Don't burn the angels!

FULBERT

THE DAYS FROM THE NIGHTS...

As 'fog' from incense burners is spread across the stage with bellows, Moselle dances as an angel.

JEROME(to Moselle)

Get out of the way!

FULBERT

HE CREATED THE SKIES…

THE WATERS...

AND THE DRY LAND...AND HE CALLED THE DRY LAND 'EARTH'...AND THE WATERS THAT WERE GATHERED TOGETHER, 'SEAS!'

LUCETTE

(to Fulbert)

How are we doing?

70.

FULBERT

AND HE SAW THATIT WAS GOOD, AND GOD SAID,

"LET THERE BE STARS IN THE FIRMAMENT."

Candles represent the stars as more props bring the play to life.

FULBERT (cont'd) (CONT’D)"AND LET THE MOON BE THE SIGN FOR THE SEASONS...

AND FOR THE DAYS AND FOR THE YEARS."AND FROM THE SEAS...

HE BROUGHT FORTH SWARMS OF LIVING CREATURES...

Paper birds begin to fly.

FULBERT (cont'd) (CONT’D)AND BIRDS...

TO FLY ACROSS THE FIRMAMENT OF THE HEAVENS.

Lucette and Chloe appear as animals, soon getting carried away with their improvisation.

FULBERT (cont'd) (CONT’D)AND THE BEASTS...

AND ALL THE CREATURES THAT WALK UPON THE EARTH...

AND HE SAW THAT IT WAS GOOD.GOD SAID, ""LET US MAKE MAN IN OUR IMAGE...AND WOMAN..."

Heloise enters. Abelard stands as he sees her. They are on opposite sides of the stage.

Enchanted by the beauty of the music and dance, Moselle, Lucette and Chloe stop clowning.

ENSEMBLE

(singing)

MAN AND WOMAN...

The oration segues into a romantic vocal chorale as two dancers appear to tell the story of Adam and Eve.

ENSEMBLE (cont'd) (CONT’D)OOH, OOH, OOH... (etc.)

71.

ABELARD

TO BE HERS TILL I DIE

THIS I SWEAR WITH MY LIFE.

I CAN'T FIGHT WHAT I FEEL.

HELOISE

TO BE HIS TILL I DIETHIS I SWEAR WITH MY LIFE.

WITHOUT HIM

ABELARD

WITHOUT HER

ABELARD AND HELOISE

(turning to each other)

I WOULD DIE!

FULBERT

AND GOD SAW WHAT HE MADE...AND KNEW THAT IT WAS GOOD.

ABELARD AND HELOISE

I AM YOURS TILL I DIE.

THIS I SWEAR WITH MY LIFE!

ONLY YOU WILL I LOVE...

Abelard and Heloise begin to cross to each other, as the play continues.

ABELARD

I will never leave you or deny you again. You are my life from this moment...

HELOISE

I don't want, or ask you to make me any promises. Whatever happens next, our time together will have been worth everything. This is my decision, my responsibility.

ABELARD

But if I ever cause you to suffer --

HELOISE

You will have done so giving me joy.

FULBERT

THEN GOD INSTRUCTED THEM, "EAT FREELY OF EVERY TREE...

THE FRUIT OF EVERYTHING THAT IS PLEASANT AND GOOD...

Dressed as a tree, Bishop De Leves appears holding the apple.

ABELARD AND HELOISE

I AM YOURS...

72.

FULBERT

"EXCEPT FROM THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE...THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD AND EVIL.

ABELARD AND HELOISE

I AM YOURS...

FULBERT

FOR IF YOU DO, YOUR EYES WILL BE OPENED

AND YOU WILL BE LIKE GOD, KNOWING GOOD AND EVIL.

YOU SHALL NOT TO TOUCH IT OR YOU WILL BE BANISHED.AND YOUR DESIRES WILL RULE OVER YOU...

ALL THE DAYS OF YOUR LIFE."

With choral voices building, Fulbert crosses to the tree, takes the apple and holds it out to Adam and Eve. They reach toward it.

ENSEMBLE

ALL THE DAYS OF LIFE!

The play concludes as Abelard and Heloise passionately kiss.

END OF ACT 1

73.

ACT II

SCENE 1

FULBERT'S HOUSE/THE TOWN SQUARE/THE STREET NEAR MOSELLE’S BROTHEL/THE LECTURE HALL - SEVERAL MONTHS LATER

A shaft of light illuminates a bed. Abelard and Heloise are making love.

As the ensemble enters, the city is alive with rumor.


ENSEMBLE

(singing)



ABELARD HAS GONE ASTRAY!HEAR THE GOSSIPON THE STREETSTHE MOST PIOUS NOW LIE BETWEEN THE SHEETSHAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD?

Lights fade on Abelard and Heloise.

MOSELLE

OH, WHAT A CRIME

ITS SUCH A SHAME

DON'T LET THE TEACHER TAKE THE BLAMEWHY WON'T HE TUTOR ME IN HIS BEDHE COULD BE TAKING A COURSE ON ME INSTEAD.

TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARD WHAT THEY SAY?

FULBERT

MY HELOISE IS BUT A GIRL OF SEVENTEENSHE'S HOME AND NOW HER BEAUTY WILL BE SEEN

TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD?


Lights shift to the lecture hall, Bernard, Henri and Jerome taunt Jean-Luc.

HENRIWell, well, well, what do you say about your precious master now Jean-Luc?

74.

JEROMEAh, doesn’t he love you anymore?

BERNARD

Leave him alone.

HENRIHe’s ditched you for that girl of his.

JEROMENo longer the philosopher’s philosopher, he’s the fornicators, fornicator!

HENRIIdle minds make for busy hands.

JEROMEAnd his are everywhere!

BERNARD

Face facts, Jean-Luc. They’re right.

They exit laughing.

Jean-Luc is devastated. He crosses out of the lecture hall and onto the street.

"SOMEONE TO ADORE" (REPRISE)

JEAN-LUC

(singing)

HOW CAN I BEGIN TO DESCRIBEA SPIRIT TURN TO FLESH BEFORE MY EYES??

MOSELLE AND TOWNSFOLK


CAN’T BELIEVE IT!

JEAN-LUC

TANGIBLE FLESH WILL BE HIS PRISON...!TRAPPED BY DERISIONNEVER MORE TO SOAR.

Jean-Luc arrives at Fulbert’s house.

FULBERT

Well boy, what are you doing here? Heloise has made it clear she no longer requires you as a teacher!

75.

JEAN-LUC

I feel it my duty to inform you that Master Abelard is... Is by all accounts... Engaged in an unholy, shameful and degrading...

FULBERT

What? What is it boy?

JEAN-LUC

He and your niece are indulging is a flagrant, sexual affair under your very nose, in your own home!

FULBERT

You are jealous.

JEAN-LUC

Jealous?

FULBERT

Heloise has made it clear that you are not capable of teaching her, furthermore she rejected your advances and so now you slander her. You are pathetic. One more word and I will banish you from Paris. Now be gone!

Jean-Luc exits.

The rumors close in on Fulbert as Townsfolk’s voices whirl around him.


TOWNSFOLKHAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD?


HELOISE SLEEPS LATE TODAYSHE’S EXHAUSTEDON HER KNEESFOR THE GREATEST OF MEN IS HARD - TO PLEASE.HAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD?HAVE YOU HEARD? HAVE YOU HEARD?


76.

SCENE 2

HELOISE’S ROOM IN FULBERT’S HOUSE - MORNING

The sun rises through a window, illuminating the two lovers. Abelard watches Heloise as she sleeps.

TRACK 18 - "RAGE AGAINST THE SUN"

ABELARD

(singing)

HOW DARE THE SUN TOUCH YOUR FACE,DARE REPLACE MY TOUCH?

HOLD STILL THE SUN IN THE SKY,

I DENY THE DAWN!

IF HE SHOULD WAKE YOU, THIS MOMENT WILL END.DRAW THE NIGHT COVERS, LET SUNLIGHT DESCEND.HE DARES TO CARESS YOU, BUT I FEAR TO BREATHE,

LEST WITH THE LIGHT, YOU RISE AND LEAVE.

SO I WILL RAGE AGAINST THE SUN

IF HE SHOULD WAKE YOU, PRECIOUS ONE.HE LOVES YOU WITH EACH SPARKLING RAY.CARESSING YOU, HE ALMOST SEEMS TO SAYTHAT WERE YOU EVER TO COMPARE

MY TOUCH WITH HIS LUSTER IN YOUR HAIR,

THEN YOU MIGHT RISE AND RUN AWAY.AND LEAVE ME IN THE SHADOWS OF HIS DAY.

HOW CAN THE SUN WAKE IN ME,JEALOUSY, MY LOVE?STAY FAST ASLEEP, PAY NO HEED

TO OUR NEED FOR YOU...

IF THIS NIGHT WERE TO END, THEN OUR TIME MAY BE GONE.IS THIS THE MOMENT TO WHICH WE BELONG?

THEN ALL THAT I'VE DREAMED OF THROUGHOUT THE LONG NIGHT

WILL VANISH WITH THE MORNING LIGHT.

SO I WILL RAGE AGAINST THE SUN

LEST HE SHOULD STEAL YOU, PRECIOUS ONE.

AND MAKE THIS PERFECT NIGHT SUBSIDE.AND CHASE AWAY THE SHADOWS WHERE WE HIDE.

Heloise awakens.

HELOISE

What time is it?

ABELARD

The worst time.

HELOISE

Hmm?

77.

ABELARD

I have to leave.

HELOISE

No. Tell the morning to go away.

ABELARD

I tried, it didn't work.

Heloise takes his hands and pulls it under the covers.

ABELARD (cont’d)

That's not fair... The household will wake soon.

HELOISE

I'll hide you.

ABELARD

Where?

She puts his hand between her legs. She smiles up at him then closes her eyes.

ABELARD (cont’d)

I think they might notice me at breakfast.

Heloise shakes

heloise and abelard · 2008. 2. 12. · heloise and abelard a new musical music by tom polum lyrics...

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