In our journey that is medieval philosophy, we have arrived at the Roman thinker Boethius. An important man for us, since he has had a large impact on philosophy, for example by translating many Greek works into Latin, forming a sort of bridge between ancient and medieval philosophy. Today we discuss his work: ‘The Consolation of Philosophy’, written during his one-year imprisonment awaiting execution. This work is written as a dialogue between Boethius and whom he calls ‘Lady Philosophy’. Should we in modern times find it problematic that he has made philosophy a woman?
During this dark time of his imprisonment, Boethius find consolidation in Philosophy, we can assume he calls her ‘Lady’ because for him philosophy is there to nurture and care for him in his time of need. A modern feminist could off course criticize this gender stereo-type Boethius has provided us of a woman as a mother figure or wife, who’s main role is caring for others. Feminism and motherhood have a difficult relationship, some extreme feminists even find that women cannot ever be free of the patriarchy until they are free of reproduction. Women having children is still the biggest contributor to the wage gap between men and women. We can criticize Boethius for his portrayal of lady Philosophy, saying this view is backward. A woman is so much more than just a mother.
But I personally am quite flattered that Boethius portrays philosophy as a woman. Philosophy is wisdom, and therefore Boethius is calling women wise. This is more than most men in his time would have said, during a period when women where subordinate to men. She provides Boethius with wisdom in the text, and not in a very demure manner often expected of women during those times. I find that Boethius therefore has quite a forward view of women. She also provides Boethius with the consolidation he needs and gives him comfort during this hard time. It has been researched many times that women play very important roles in providing emotional support in communities, and that men often depend on a female for most of his emotional support. Yes, a woman is of course much more than just a mother and a support system, but we can also take pride in this role, instead of viewing it as something that is outdated and holding us back.
An Introduction to Medieval Philosophy 