The Consolation of Philosophy

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The book has been a staple for scholars from the Middle Ages to the sixteenth century, influencing many and being translated into every European language, including nearly a dozen English versions. This translation aims to capture the enduring appeal of Boethius's work, which uniquely blends prose and verse like a Greek play, and carries a poignant significance given its historical context. Readers who engage with the original text will find it rewarding, and a new English translation is timely after nearly a century. Some editions feature a bust claimed to represent Boethius, though its authenticity is questionable. The Hope Collection at Oxford offers a different portrait, lacking authoritative backing. Instead, a plaster-cast from the Ashmolean Museum, depicting Boethius's father, Narius Manlius Boethius, is used as a frontispiece. This representation is significant, showcasing the consular attire and the artistic decline of the era. The consul is depicted in a richly embroidered cloak, holding a staff topped with a Roman eagle and a napkin for starting circus races, with palms and money bags at his feet—symbols of victory in games. Thanks are extended to the Ashmolean Museum and Mr. T.W. Jackson for their assistance in this endeavor.