Peter Cantor

Peter the Chanter, also known as Peter Cantor or by his Latin name Petrus Cantor, was a French Roman Catholic theologian. He received his education at Rheims, and later moved on to Paris, where, in 1183, he became Chanter and chief canon at Notre-Dame. Charters show Petrus Cantor as a man active in hearing cases, witnessing documents and participating in the business of the chapter of Notre Dame. Petrus was elected dean at Reims in 1196, but died in the following year in the Longpont Abbey, some time after 29 January 1197. He produced many theological works dealing with topics such as sacraments, cannon law, and the equality of men in the absence of sin. His work reflects Scholastic perspectives. Peter the Chanter was an influential voice in contemporary theology and his teachings are reflective of the evolving perspectives within the Church of the late 12th century and early 13th century.