Regulation of Grief: The Concept of Consolation in Boethius’ Consolation of Philosophy

Abstract

This thesis considers how Boethius’ Consolation of Philosophy can be read as a consolatory text, and what consolation strategies are used within it. Accordingly, this thesis argues against satirical readings of the Consolation, like those presented by Joel Relihan (2007), and against John Marenbon’s interpretation that the text explores the limitations in Lady Philosophy’s ability to console. To this end, this thesis will consider specific features of the Consolation, its use of personifications, and the dialogue form, from the perspective of emotional practices established by Monique Scheer (2012) and Christoph Jedan’s (2020) five axis model of consolation. In addition, this thesis uses various adaptations and translations of the Consolation of Philosophy from the Medieval period to compare the function of the dialogue form, and the use of personifications to the consolatory meaning of the text. Research on the Consolation of Philosophy has focussed on Lady Philosophy’s rational arguments, delineating a healing worldview to Boethius. This thesis explores other ways in which Lady Philosophy consoles Boethius, most importantly through indicating acceptable ways to behave and to engage with grief.