THE TRANSMISSION OF BOETHIUS' "DE CONSOLATIONE PHILOSOPHIAE" IN THE CAROLINGIAN AGE
Adrian Papahagi
The question of the transmission Boethius' De consolatione Pbilosopbiae (V. 5 2 4) has given rise to more than one fascinating - but not always irrefutable theory. There is nonetheless something a consensus among Boethian scholars, who regard Alcuin (735-804) as providential figure rescued famous prosimetrum from oblivion, and brought it attention Carolingian world.1 According this hypothesis, discovered in Italy rare sixthcentury codex Consolatio, which he then France. Copies were made circulated end Charlemagne's empire other, Tours St Gall.2 Some however, have argued that was first Anglo-Saxon known Consolatio: Aldhelm (V.630,- 709), Bede (f.672- 735), Tatwine (d. 734) are amongst those believed been familiar with text before even born. In case, at least Consolatio manuscript must existed England, would had no need discover long his home country.But there any evidence Britain 800, or 900? Is played part 'rediscovery' Consolation following pages, I like reassess existing theories, an attempt suggest centre learning Saint-Benoit-sur-Loire, better Fleury, appears be closely involved exegesis masterpiece connected (York, Saint-Martin Tours, court school Charlemagne). light what we know about circulation manuscripts, perhaps easier demonstrate reached England through Francia, rather other way round.It legitimate believe if anyone knew Philosophiae time Alcuin, Venerable did, for far exceeds scholar after him.3 Books Known Anglo-Latin Writers Alâhelm J. D. A. Ogilvy suggested Consolatio? abandoned opinion later publications,5 acquiesced did works.6Nonetheless, view challenged by Fabio Troncarelli, author invaluable studies manuscripts. Tradizioni perdute, Troncarelli puts up entire scaffolding arguments, trying prove seventh- eighth-century started circulating Europe due activity insular scholars on Continent.7 second point disprove, can thus addressed first. Italian palaeographer believes most authors ninth century origin, belonged abbeys foundation.8 He quotes names 'editorial patron' text, Waldramus Gall, Saxo, Annales de gestis Caroli Magni, Paschasius Radbertus, Sedulius Scotus, John Scotus. Nonetheless, addition these, may quote Theodulf Jonas Orleans, Modoinus Auxerre, Walafrid Strabo, Lupus Ferneres, Remigius many others descent. Moreover, reminded all mentioned working Continent, likelihood they became acquainted provinces where engaged teaching writing. Consequently, say Irish British descent, others, century, Continent.9Troncarelli's main demonstration based comparison passages riddles Aldhelm, Bede's die iudicii. …
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