Geoffrey of Auxerre

Gaufridus Claraevallensis

Biography

Geoffrey, named of Auxerre after his place of origin, was a student and a disciple of Peter Abelard in Paris in 1140, when he heard the sermon of Saint Bernard to the clerics and decided to follow him to Clairvaux, along with many others. He was a special friend of Saint Bernard, who took him as his secretary and a travelling companion during his preaching crusade in Germany. He wrote the account of the miraculous events in the saint’s journey. He compiled the Letters of the Abbot of Clairvaux, of whom he remained the main biographer. He also wrote a biography of the holy bishop Peter of Tarentaise at the request of the General Chapters.

Abbot of Igny (1158-1162?), then of Clairvaux (1162-1165?), he worked to promote the cause of canonization of his master and father, Bernard. After four years of government, difficulties that were more related to the Church's public affairs led him to resign. Nevertheless, he became Abbot of Fossanova (1170-1176?), then of Hautecombe (1176-1188?).

He is the author of commentaries on Scripture (Song of Songs, Revelation, Ecclesiastes) and of sermons.

Works

• Life of St Bernard of Clairvaux (Vita prima, Books III-V)

Browse 1 works

Quotations

• [Vg] Ge 14:18
• [Vg] Ge 2:18
• [Vg] Ge 3:15
• [Vg] Ex 28:1
• [Vg] Ex 32:12

Browse 483 quotations