The Consolation of Philosophy

Synopsis

Boethius composed the De Consolatione Philosophiae in the sixth century AD whilst awaiting death under torture, condemned on a charge of treason which he protested was manifestly unjust. Though a convinced Christian, in detailing the true end of life which is the soul's knowledge of God, he consoled himself not with Christian precepts but with the tenets of Greek philosophy. This work dominated the intellectual world of the Middle Ages; writers as diverse as Thomas Aquinas, Jean de Meun, and Dante were inspired by it. In England it was rendered in to Old English by Alfred the Great, into Middle English by Geoffrey Chaucer, and later Queen Elizabeth I made her own translation. The circumstances of composition, the heroic demeanour of the author, and the 'Menippean' texture of part prose, part verse have combined to exercise a fascination over students of philosophy and literature ever since. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Wailing of Boethius

Boethius, a prominent Roman philosopher and statesman, laments his imprisonment and unjust conviction for treason. He is visited by Philosophy, who personifies divine wisdom and reason.

Chapter 2: The Critique of Worldly Goods

Philosophy questions Boethius's attachment to worldly possessions, power, and fame. She argues that these are transient and unreliable sources of happiness.

Example: Boethius's conviction and imprisonment destroyed his political career and status.

Chapter 3: The Nature of Providence

Philosophy explains that Providence, the guiding force of the universe, governs all events for a purpose. She assures Boethius that his suffering is part of a larger plan that will ultimately lead to his good.

Example: Boethius's imprisonment provides him with the opportunity to reflect on his life and seek solace in philosophy.

Chapter 4: The Problem of Evil

Boethius confronts the problem of how an all-good God can allow evil and suffering to exist. Philosophy argues that evil is not an active force but rather an absence of good.

Example: God's creation is inherently good, but when creatures deviate from their natural order, evil arises.

Chapter 5: The Nature of Happiness

Philosophy defines true happiness as residing in the pursuit of wisdom and virtue. She argues that external circumstances are irrelevant to our inner well-being.

Example: Even in the depths of his despair, Boethius finds solace in the pursuit of philosophical knowledge.

Chapter 6: The Consolation of Music

Music, as a representation of harmony and order, provides Boethius with comfort and solace. Philosophy explains how music's mathematical proportions reflect the divine harmony of the universe.

Example: The lyre's strings, when played in tune, produce pleasing melodies that resonate with our souls.

Chapter 7: Fortune's Wheel

Philosophy introduces the concept of Fortune's Wheel, which symbolizes the unpredictable and ever-changing nature of human life. She warns Boethius against placing too much reliance on good fortune.

Example: Boethius's sudden fall from power illustrates the fragility of human fortunes.

Chapter 8: The True Nobility

Philosophy argues that true nobility lies not in wealth or social status but in the pursuit of virtue and wisdom. She emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge and the cultivation of one's inner qualities.

Example: Boethius's imprisonment allows him to discover his own strength and resilience.

Chapter 9: The Vision of God

In a moment of ecstatic contemplation, Boethius has a vision of God as the ultimate source of truth, wisdom, and happiness. He realizes that God is the only true source of consolation.

Example: Boethius's experience with God provides him with an unshakeable sense of purpose and hope beyond the limitations of his physical circumstances.