Memento

Boethius

            After a semester of reading texts and ideas from a variety of sources with different beliefs and backgrounds, it is hard to not see the similarities between them and it can be difficult to draw different things from new readings. The Consolation of Philosophy by Boethius is a break from the regular information and ideas presented by many of these sources. In many of the other texts that we have read, feelings and emotions are used as persuaders and to prove points, which is not a bad thing for the most part. However, Boethius utilizes logic and reasoning for much of his points, and I much prefer this method. This style can lead to people wondering why this text is widely considered a Christian piece, as it feels very different compared to other works.

            Boethius analyzes God and his place in the universe, forming many conclusions that are fundamental to the Christian faith. In the third book around page 53, Boethius discusses all of God’s role in relation to his people, identifying him as the creator, Father, leader, and the one, true God. The description that Boethius offers covers many of the different aspects and relationships of God, and I feel that these qualities are very important to Christians. God’s place as all of this different things is what defines his love for us and the ability that we all have to form a relationship with him, both of which are extremely important and unique to our faith. I can see how many would question the Christian aspect of this text as it does not discuss Jesus at all, but I do not believe that it negates all that it has to offer in regards to other aspects of Christianity. Just because one piece does not specifically involve Jesus does not mean that it is not important to other parts of the faith. Just as Basil believed, we need to be able to withdraw ideas from all kinds of sources, including this one.

            As humans, we are always searching for something to satisfy our desires, and will always be left unsatisfied as long as we seek gratification in worldly things. Boethius realizes this situation, and claims that God is the only ultimate source of true happiness, a belief that is also very fundamental to Christianity. This supported with logic and reasoning is very compelling to me, and I think that this aspect is another part of the text that is very helpful as a Christian work. Overall, I believe that the different approach used is very refreshing and brings up many foundational points to Christianity, and I can see why the work would continue to be regarded as a Christian piece.