This book offers a complete study of the doctrine of the cross in the writings of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Until now, this theologically rich topic has not received the attention it calls for. Anthony Lane analyzes and expounds the doctrine of the cross based on the nearly seven hundred references to the cross in Bernard's writings. Among the important topics the author explores are:

* Bernard's letter against Abelard, a work of central significance for this topic
* the "usward" aspect of Christ's work, its subjective influence on us, and the "Godward" aspect, the way in which the cross puts us right with God
* objections to this teaching posed by Abelard and others
* ways in which Bernard applies his doctrine of the cross
* a concluding assessment of Bernard's teaching on the topic