Translating Lady Philosophy: Chaucer and the Boethian Corpus of Cambridge, University Library MS Ii. 3. 21
Melinda Nielsen
The fifteenth-century Boethian compilation, Cambridge University Library MS Ii. 3. 21, brings together major interpretive strands concerning why Lady Philosophy, the dialogue's authoritative figure, is represented as a woman. Working within commentary tradition, Chaucer's Boece presents Philosophy's “norisschynge” of Boethius defining characteristic authority, and fullest expression all three her roles teacher, doctor, wet-nurse. In so doing, Chaucer treats translation into “our dames tonge” inextricably feminine pedagogical.
The Chaucer Review