Thomas More
Biography of Thomas More
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Sir Thomas More
Common Aliases: Saint Thomas More, Thomas Morus
Birth and Death Dates
Birth Date: February 7, 1478
Death Date: July 6, 1535
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: English
Profession(s): Lawyer, Social Philosopher, Author, Statesman, Humanist
Early Life and Background
Thomas More was born in London, England, to a prominent lawyer, Sir John More, and his wife, Agnes Graunger. Growing up in a family that valued education and public service, More was exposed to the legal profession from an early age. He attended St. Anthony's School, one of the best schools in London at the time, and later went on to study at the University of Oxford. At Oxford, More developed a keen interest in the classics and philosophy, which laid the foundation for his future intellectual pursuits.
After two years at Oxford, More returned to London to study law at New Inn, one of the Inns of Chancery, and later at Lincoln's Inn, where he was called to the Bar. His legal training and humanist education equipped him with the skills and knowledge that would serve him well in his future roles as a statesman and author.
Major Accomplishments
Thomas More's career was marked by a series of significant accomplishments that reflected his diverse talents and interests. He served as a Member of Parliament, where he gained a reputation for his integrity and eloquence. More's legal acumen and dedication to public service eventually led to his appointment as Lord Chancellor of England in 1529, succeeding Cardinal Wolsey. As Lord Chancellor, More was known for his fair judgments and efforts to reform the legal system.
In addition to his political career, More was a prominent figure in the Renaissance humanist movement. He was a close friend and collaborator of Desiderius Erasmus, with whom he shared a passion for classical learning and the reform of the Church. More's intellectual pursuits and commitment to humanist ideals were evident in his writings and public life.
Notable Works or Actions
Thomas More is perhaps best known for his seminal work, "Utopia," published in 1516. This book, written in Latin, presents a fictional account of an ideal society on an imaginary island, where social, political, and economic structures are organized to promote the common good. "Utopia" is a critique of contemporary European society and a reflection of More's humanist ideals. The book has had a lasting impact on political thought and literature, influencing generations of thinkers and writers.
More's steadfast opposition to King Henry VIII's separation from the Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England is another notable aspect of his life. His refusal to endorse the King's divorce from Catherine of Aragon and the subsequent Act of Supremacy, which declared Henry the Supreme Head of the Church of England, ultimately led to More's arrest and execution for treason.
Impact and Legacy
Thomas More's impact on history is profound and multifaceted. As a statesman, he is remembered for his commitment to justice and the rule of law. His tenure as Lord Chancellor set a standard for integrity and fairness in public office. More's humanist writings, particularly "Utopia," have left an indelible mark on literature and political philosophy, inspiring debates about the nature of society and governance.
More's martyrdom for his religious convictions has also cemented his legacy as a symbol of moral integrity and courage. In 1935, he was canonized by the Catholic Church as a saint, and he is venerated as a martyr who stood firm in his beliefs despite immense pressure to conform.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Thomas More is widely quoted and remembered for his eloquent articulation of humanist ideals and his unwavering commitment to his principles. His writings, particularly "Utopia," continue to resonate with readers for their insightful critique of society and exploration of ideal governance. More's life and death serve as a powerful testament to the importance of conscience and integrity, making him a figure of enduring relevance in discussions about ethics, law, and politics.
His famous last words, "I die the king's good servant, and God's first," encapsulate his dedication to both his faith and his duty, and they continue to inspire those who value moral courage and the pursuit of truth.
Quotes by Thomas More
Thomas More's insights on:
The Utopians fail to understand why anyone should be so fascinated by the dull gleam of a tiny bit of stone, when he has all the stars in the sky to look at.
The ordinary arts we practice every day at home are of more importance to the soul than their simplicity might suggest.
Human nature constitutes a treaty in itself, and human beings are far more effectively united by kindness than by contracts, by feelings than by words.
Instead of inflicting these horrible punishments, it would be far more to the point to provide everyone with some means of livelihood, so that nobody’s under the frightful necessity of becoming first a thief and then a corpse.
The same trade generally passes down from father to son, inclinations often following descent: but if any man’s genius lies another way he is, by adoption, translated into a family that deals in the trade to which he is inclined;.
Your friend Plato holds that commonwealths will only be happy when either philosophers rule or rulers philosophize: how remote happiness must appear when philosophers won’t even deign to share their thoughts with kings.