Why does Boethius view fortune as changeable in his work “The Consolation of Philosophy”?
In his work, Consolation of Philosophy (Consolatio Philosophiae), Boethius portrays Fortuna (fortune or chance) as a changeable and unstable force. The fundamental reason for this is that external and temporary blessings in human life (wealth, power, fame, bodily pleasures, etc.) are unstable and unreliable. Boethius bases this view as follows:
- The Nature of Fortuna:
Fortuna is depicted as a goddess or a cosmic principle in ancient and medieval thought. According to Boethius, her most distinctive characteristic is her changeability. Like a spinning wheel, she is both exalted and depressed. Therefore, people’s fortunes are constantly changing; someone who is happy today may be swept away by disaster tomorrow.
Philosophy reminds Boethius that this changeability of Fortuna is inevitable. For worldly blessings come and go beyond human control.
- The Deceptiveness of External Blessings:
In his work, Boethius emphasizes that true happiness is not dependent on external circumstances. If people cling to wealth, power, or fame, the wheel of Fortune will inevitably overthrow them. These are temporary and uncontrollable.
For example, in the work’s famous allegory, Philosophy tells Boethius: “Everything you think Fortuna has given you is actually hers; she can take it back whenever she chooses.”
- Philosophical Consolation and Unchanging Truth:
Boethius uses Fortuna’s changeability as a tool for philosophical awakening. To seek true happiness, one must turn not to external games of chance, but to reason, virtue, and God.
Philosophy advises him to pursue what is fixed and eternal (God’s order, moral values, the immortality of the soul). In this way, one can achieve an inner peace unaffected by Fortune’s wheel.
- In the Context of Fate and Free Will:
Boethius contrasts Fortuna’s changeability with divine providence. Fortune is a chaotic force beyond human control, yet it remains meaningful even under God’s absolute justice and order.
Humans can escape Fortuna’s influence by freely choosing a virtuous life. For true happiness lies not in external circumstances, but in the serenity of the soul.
In summary:
By portraying Fortuna as changeable, Boethius invites the reader to abandon the pursuit of the mortal and turn to eternal truths. For him, fortune is a test that tests humanity; true wisdom lies in not being swayed by its wiles. This theme can be read as a synthesis of Stoicism and Christian theology.
“Do not boast of the favor of fortune; everything you lost was not yours. All you possess is your unchanging virtue.” (Consolatio Philosophiae, Book II)
