Gerard of Clairvaux was a 12th-century Benedictine monk who lived in France. Born around 1101 in Fontaine-lès-Dijon, he was the elder brother of the famous Bernard of Clairvaux. Before committing to monastic life, he served as a soldier, during which time he suffered injuries and imprisonment during a siege at Grancy. Following his release, he joined the Cistercian order, where he served as a cellarer and oversaw the daily operations of the abbey.