With A Companion to Bernard of Clairvaux, Brill continues its excellent series with a worthwhile collection of essays examining Bernard and his works from a variety of angles. Brian Patrick McGuire has assembled an impressive panel of Cistercian scholars from diverse traditions who present the controversial yet beloved saint from his or her own unique perspective—with an occasional mention of Bernard's lasting impact on their own lives.

While each contributor adds to the extensive body of modern Bernardine scholarship, certain essays merit mention. McGuire begins the collection with a helpful overview of Bernard's life and major works for those not familiar with the historical record. With the basics covered, Michael Casey presents an outstanding essay that moves from the facts to the implications of Bernard's life, medium, and message. E. Rozanne Elder examines Bernard through the honest eyes of his contemporary, William of St. Thierry, revealing new insights into this complicated relationship. Bernard's multifaceted relationship with Peter Abelard is the subject of Constant J. Mews’ helpful contribution. Another highlight in this Companion is Christopher Holdsworth's explication of Bernard's important epistolary corpus, a segment of the abbot's writings that are worthy of further exploration. Closing out the book are two brief and personal articles from eminent Cistercian scholars, the late Chrysogonus Waddell and the respected John R. Sommerfeldt.

McGuire should be commended for his efforts. This work is a wonderful compilation for scholars who desire to deepen their knowledge of and appreciation for this important and complex medieval personality.