| The dissertation attempts to describe and evaluate the role of language in Boethius' thought, and is concerned with two central problems: the philosophical application of language to logical enquiry; the thinking or statements that take place within the mind. All Boethius' writings have been consulted, but the Isagoge, Categories and Perihermeneias commentaries and Consolatio have been given closer attention. There are five chapters. The first treats of three topics, ranging from the truth-values of categorical propositions to the difference between ratio and intellegentia, and serves primarily to introduce material treated later. The second is focused upon Boethius' view of the scope and intention of the Categories and Perihermeneias, and upon the question of Universals. The third and fourth chapters form something of a unit, and treat of Boethius' translation and commentary for Perihermeneias I, respectively. There is discussion of his views of meaning and reference, and of the ratio-intellegentia distinction raised in chapter one. An interpretation, based in part on Proclus' view of Plato's World Soul, of Boethius understanding of inner discourse is put forth, which raises the question of Boethius' view of active mind. The question of active mind is discussed in chapter five, in connection with what is said about prayer at Consolatio V. An attempt is made here to bring together the previous discussions and to show the continuity of Boethius' philosophical diction across his writings, and the view of mind implied therein. It is hoped that the study will be useful to students of later Medieval philosophy. |
