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English 240: Ancient Literature Boethius, The Consolation of Philosophy Al Drake | Cyber Cafe M/W 10-11 | ajdrake@ajdrake.com Book 1 1. Under what circumstances does Boethius first see Lady Philosophy? What aspect does she assume, and what does she have against the Muses? (3-5) 2. What is the first line of consolation offered by Philosophy, and what examples of fortitude does she provide? (7-9) 3. What complaints does Boethius lodge against his current lot? What has been done to him, by whom, and what has his experience made him think of his philosophical knowledge? (10-15) 4. How does Philosophy begin to counter Boethius' complaints? What does she suggest he has forgotten? In what way is her advice Christian? (16-21) Book 2 5. Why, according to Philosophy, should we neither trust nor blame fortune? What mental and spiritual error does trusting in fortune or blaming it involve? (23-28) 6. Why, according to Philosophy, are power and honor vain delusions on the part of those who seek them? 7. Why is Philosophy still not satisfied with Boethius' response to her advice? (41-46) Book 3 8. What various types of "false happiness" does Philosophy examine, and on what grounds does she dismiss them? (48-65) 9. How does Philosophy characterize God – why, for example, is it appropriate to call him "the supreme good"? (68-77) 10. How far would you say Boethius has come towards achieving a state of consolation? What assessment of his own failings and understanding so far does he offer? (78-82) to be continued...
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