The Consolation of Philosophy · Chapter
II explained
Philosophy confronts Boethius in his lethargy, wiping his eyes and beginning to heal him from the stupor of forgetfulness.
What happens
Philosophy confronts Boethius in his lethargy, wiping his eyes and beginning to heal him from the stupor of forgetfulness.
Themes in this chapter
Philosophy as Healing
Philosophy declares the time calls for healing rather than lamentation, and she begins to cure Boethius' lethargy.
Characters to notice
- Boethius
Struck dumb and lethargic, unable to speak, but Philosophy begins to restore his memory.
- Philosophy
Diagnoses Boethius' lethargy, touches his breast, and wipes his eyes to begin healing.
Key passages
“But the time," said she, "calls rather for healing than for lamentation.”
Philosophy says that now is the time for healing, not for weeping.
Philosophy shifts the focus from grief to recovery.
“There is no danger; these are the symptoms of lethargy, the usual sickness of deluded minds.”
Philosophy reassures that Boethius is not in danger, only suffering from a common mental stupor.
She diagnoses his condition as lethargy, a sickness of the mind.