Book 2 Chapter 4: Happiness From Virtue

The Consolation of Philosophy

Philosophy tells Boethius to stop whining, and check his privilege. Boethius objects that the memory of past happiness is the bitterest portion of the lot of the unhappy. Philosophy shows that much is still left for which he may be thankful. None enjoy perfect satisfaction with their lot. But happiness depends not on anything which Fortune can give. It is to be sought within. — Analysis: self-sacrifice as a path to happiness; suffering and happiness; Aristotle contributes to the discussion on virtue and Eudaimonia. I do a reading of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Bonus Content: Jordan Peterson, Roger Scruton, and the value of cultural literacy.