Chaucer's Translation of Boethius's "De Consolatione Philosophiae"

This edition brings Geoffrey Chaucer’s Middle‑English rendering of Boethius’s timeless philosophical treatise to modern ears. The text is presented twice: first with the full scholarly apparatus—including linenotes, glossarial indexes, and carefully regularised line numbers—followed by a clean, note‑free version for uninterrupted listening. Alongside the translation are helpful introductions that explain the historical backdrop, the influence of Boethius on medieval thought, and the peculiarities of the manuscript tradition, such as rare characters and Greek marginalia.

Listeners will also find an appendix of Chaucer’s poetic verses and a comprehensive glossary that decodes the archaic spellings and theological terms. The careful editorial work highlights how Chaucer engaged with Boethius’s ideas, offering a glimpse into the intellectual life of the 14th century while preserving the original’s lyrical quality. Whether you’re a fan of medieval literature or curious about the roots of Western philosophy, this recording makes a complex scholarly resource both accessible and engaging.