Book 1, Chapter 4 | The Consolation of Philosophy

Chapter Summary

Philosophy advises Boethius to face both good and bad fortune, which has no true power over him, with integrity. He passionately recounts how he had followed her advice in studying philosophy in his work in public affairs, but had been falsely accused and was being unjustly punished. That the evil plot has succeeded is what astonishes him. He laments because, unlike him, unpunished criminals enjoy pleasure.

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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