About this ebook
Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius' 'The Consolation of Philosophy', translated by Walter John Sedgefield, stands as an intellectual colossus bridging the Classical and Medieval worlds. Crafted during his imprisonment prior to execution, Boethius weaves a dialogue between himself and Lady Philosophy, examining the transient nature of fortune, the pursuit of true happiness, and the inscrutable workings of divine providence. Composed around 524, the work is remarkable for its form, blending prose and verse, and its synthesis of Greek and Roman philosophical traditions. As a testament to the enduring classical spirit amidst the onset of the Dark Ages, 'The Consolation' has been venerated for its elegant style and profound wisdom, securing its legacy as a cornerstone of Western thought. Boethius' erudition and eventual tragic fate are keys to understanding the depths of 'The Consolation of Philosophy'. Born to a patrician family and ascending to high public office as a senator and consul, his life was a blend of philosophical study and active political engagement. His somber turn of fortune, from revered statesman to a condemned prisoner, provided a poignant backdrop for his meditations on the fickleness of fortune and the search for enduring truths amidst the chaos of earthly life. His philosophically charged literary masterpiece is a reflection on personal crisis as well as a treatise intended for posterity. 'The Consolation of Philosophy' is highly recommended for scholars of philosophy, history, and literature, as well as for those intrigued by the human condition. Its exploration of universal themes such as adversity, happiness, justice, and the nature of good and evil, resonates across centuries. Boethius' work serves not only as an exemplar of classical literary achievement but also as a source of comfort and insight for readers seeking solace and understanding in the face of their own tribulations. This translation by Sedgefield offers an accessible passage into a world where wisdom may ultimately triumph over despair.
About the author
Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius (c. 480-524 AD) is a towering figure in the annals of Western philosophy and literature, often regarded as the last of the Roman intellectuals and one of the earliest scholastic philosophers. Born into a prestigious Roman family, Boethius went on to assume a number of important political positions, including senator and consul, before falling out of favor with the Ostrogothic king, Theodoric the Great. This misfortune led to his imprisonment and eventual execution, during which he composed his seminal work, 'The Consolation of Philosophy' (Sedgefield translation). In this magnum opus, Boethius addresses the vicissitudes of human fortune, the fluctuating nature of happiness, and the pursuit of the highest good. The timeless text merges Neoplatonic and Christian thought, reflecting Boethius' profound engagement with Greek philosophy, particularly the teachings of Plato and Aristotle. 'The Consolation of Philosophy' has had a lasting influence on Western thought, contributing significantly to medieval Christian philosophy and Renaissance humanism. The elegant prose and poetic meter of the text reveal Boethius' literary finesse, firmly establishing his reputation as a philosopher-poet. The work has been translated numerous times, and Sedgefield's English translation has contributed to its accessibility and enduring legacy. His intellectual contributions continue to resonate with scholars and readers interested in the intersection of philosophy, theology, and literary form.
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
