Written in the sixth century, The Consolation of Philosophy was one of the most popular and influential works of the Middle Ages. Boethius composed the masterpiece while imprisoned and awaiting the death sentence for treason. The Christian author had served as a high-ranking government official before falling out of favor with Roman Emperor Theodoric, an Arian. In the Consolation, Boethius explores the true end of life-knowledge of God-through a conversation with Lady Philosophy. Part prose, part poetry, the work combines Greek philosophy and Christian faith to formulate answers to some of life's most difficult and enduring questions.

Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius was a 6th century nobleman, politician, and most notably-a philosopher. In his lifetime he saw the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the establishment of the Ostrogoths. He served a year as Consul but eventually came under suspicion of treasonous dealings with the Eastern Roman Empire. King Theodric the Great imprisoned Boethius and eventually executed him. While awaiting his fate in prison Boethius wrote The Consolation of Philosophy, a book about the weighty issues of life. Framed as a dialogue between Boethius and Philosophy (personated by a woman), Boethius discusses inequality and the overruling importance of Providence. Along with his translations of Aristotle and other Greek classics, Boethius' writings had a profound impact on scholars of the Middle Ages