The Consolation of Philosophy

by Boethius, Mint Editions (Contribution by)

Overview

A conversational text that addresses many philosophical concepts as well as Western religion by questioning good versus evil and the unnecessary suffering of innocent people. Anicius Boethius draws from his own experiences to illustrate these spiritual and ethical struggles.

In The Consolation of Philosophy the author engages in a figurative discussion with Lady Philosophy, a type of teacher. Through their exchange, he poses serious questions regarding the existence of God and human nature. He also acknowledges his own dire circumstances, contemplating the hardships and trauma. Many counterpoints are tied to ideals such as the Wheel of Fortune, highlighting inconsistent and often unfair outcomes. He also focuses on the importance of intangible gifts such as love and intelligence.

The Consolation of Philosophy is an honest analysis of the nature of happiness. It forces the reader to face hard truths about their wants versus needs. It’s a sobering examination of the unpredictable structure of life.

With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of The Consolation of Philosophy is both modern and readable.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781513207711
Publisher:	Mint Editions
Publication date:	07/27/2021
Series:	Mint Editions (Philosophical and Theological Work)
Pages:	154
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.44(d)

About the Author

Anicius Boethius (477–524) was a Roman philosopher who lived during the 5th and 6th centuries. Born into a family of politicians, Boethius was educated in Greek and had a love for literature and philosophy. He is often cited as an accomplished orator, senator and consul. Despite his years in public service, Boethius was accused of treason and eventually imprisoned. During confinement, he wrote his most notable work, The Consolation of Philosophy, which was completed before his execution in 524.

Table of Contents

	Preface	viii
	Introduction	xi
I	Introductory	xi
II	Boethius' Life and Writings	xiii
III	The Consolation of Philosophy	xxii
IV	The Christianity of Boethius	xxxii
V	The Text	xxxv
Book I3
Book II22
Book III47
Book IV85
Book V116
	Bibliography	139
	Glossary	143

What People are Saying About This

A remarkable translation of one of the great masterpieces of philosophical literature.

Henry Taylor

This is a sensitive and readable translation, whose poetic merits place it beyond other translations of Boethius's great text.

Gail Holst-Warhaft

A remarkable translation of one of the great masterpieces of philosophical literature.
— Gail Holst-Warhaft, Cornell University

Editorial Reviews

"An excellent introduction and overview of this important thinker's thought and legacy."-Calvin Theological Journal

From the Publisher

A remarkable translation of one of the great masterpieces of philosophical literature.

Gail Holst-Warhaft

This is a beautifully made little book that I have taken with me on a number of trips, partly just for the pleasure of holding it. At any time I would be glad to have it.

Books and Culture - John Wilson

It's a remarkable book (though a short one), and its latest edition, rendered into fluid, compellingly immediate English by veteran translator David R. Slavitt, is very markedly the best one it's ever had...Slavitt presents the reader with Boethius brought to vibrant, vigorous life, to a degree that makes all previous English versions seem pedantic and irrelevant. Harvard University Press has crafted a physically beautiful volume, sturdy and small enough to fit in your pocket—an extremely fitting format for a book that's meant to be a comfort against life's ills. Reading this edition, even readers who've never encountered Boethius before will see at once why his book has meant so much to so many people for the last 1,500 years.

openlettersmonthly.com - Steve Donoghue

This is a sensitive and readable translation, whose poetic merits place it beyond other translations of Boethius's great text.

Henry Taylor

This is a beautifully made little book that I have taken with me on a number of trips, partly just for the pleasure of holding it. At any time I would be glad to have it.
— John Wilson

Books and Culture

It's a remarkable book (though a short one), and its latest edition, rendered into fluid, compellingly immediate English by veteran translator David R. Slavitt, is very markedly the best one it's ever had...Slavitt presents the reader with Boethius brought to vibrant, vigorous life, to a degree that makes all previous English versions seem pedantic and irrelevant. Harvard University Press has crafted a physically beautiful volume, sturdy and small enough to fit in your pocket—an extremely fitting format for a book that's meant to be a comfort against life's ills. Reading this edition, even readers who've never encountered Boethius before will see at once why his book has meant so much to so many people for the last 1,500 years.
— Steve Donoghue

openlettersmonthly.com