Consolation Of Philosophy

What are some possible reasons why Boethius decided to present his book in dialogue form with a personified Philosophy? In what ways would the book have been different if it were a straight philosophical treatise without characters and dialogue?

Much debate about Boethius has centered on the quality of his Christian faith. Do you think that Christian ideas are present in Consolation, despite the lack of explicit references to Christianity or the Bible? If so, cite some examples. If not, explain Boethius’s choice to exclude Christian ideas.

What reasons might Boethius have had for placing the great Platonic prayer to God approximately midway through the book, at the end of Book 3?

In some passages in Book 3 (e.g., Page 65) Philosophy seems to speak of wealth, power, fame, and pleasure as lesser goods, while in others (e.g., Page 74) she seems to imply that they have no good in them at all. Do you think this contradiction can be reconciled? Cite examples from the book.

Do you find convincing Philosophy's argument that evil is “nothing” and “weak”? What might be a good counterargument, using examples from history or everyday life?

What moral lesson(s) does Philosophy draw from the story of Orpheus and Eurydice recounted at the end of Book 3, and how do they apply to Boethius's situation?

What were the specific circumstances that led to Boethius's conviction and imprisonment, as discussed in Book 1, Chapter 4? What moral qualities do Boethius's actions demonstrate?

What does Philosophy mean by claiming that happiness is to be found within oneself? Do you think external things or circumstances ever be a source of true happiness?