Book 1, Chapter 6 | The Consolation of Philosophy

Chapter Summary

To ensure an appropriate remedy, Philosophy asks Boethius several questions. He believes that God is in control of his creation, that God is the source of all things, and that man is a mortal, reasoning creature. However, he has not applied the former belief to his circumstances, and has forgotten the goal of creation and—most serious of all—even his own identity. Thus he is confused and upset at his exile, wrongly believing the wicked are blessed and that his misfortunes are random. Even though these beliefs would kill him, his belief in God’s sovereignty is a spark that can be fanned into flame and bring him back to life. Philosophy will work slowly and gently to this purpose.

About The Consolation of Philosophy

Written in the 6th-century from a prison cell as the author awaits execution for a crime he did not commit, The Consolation of Philosophy is a dialogue between Boethius and a mysterious woman—Lady Philosophy—who helps him rediscover wisdom and virtue.

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