Abstract:
The impetus for my thesis is the psychological predicament injustice creates,
namely, the paralyzing effect of suffering. As presented in Boethius’ Consolation of
Philosophy, I examine how the resolution to this problem hinges upon memory as it
actively works to reorder our conception of seemingly arbitrary circumstances. Over the
course of the Consolation, the process of remembering rightly moves Boethius from a
state of despairing passion toward reasoned consolation, even as his outward condition
remains essentially the same. Without denying the reality of suffering, right
remembrance in Boethius offers a framework for honest reflection in reconciling the
good with the painful. Right remembrance thus becomes not only a theoretical means of
achieving peace and happiness for Boethius alone, but also more poignantly functions as
a practical, timeless means of living well amidst troubled circumstances.
