About
Thomas More was an English Christian humanist and statesman. After studying at Oxford and Lincoln's Inn, he considered the priesthood before pursuing a legal and political career. A friend of Erasmus, he authored Utopia (1516), which describes an ideal society and gave rise to the utopian genre. He held high offices under Henry VIII, becoming Lord Chancellor in 1529, but resigned in 1532 due to his opposition to the break with Rome. Imprisoned for refusing the Oath of Supremacy, he was executed in 1535. Canonized in 1935, he is the patron saint of politicians.
* 1478-02-07 — † 1535-07-06
Major works
- Utopia (1516)philosophical treatise
- The History of King Richard III (c. 1513–1518)historical chronicle
Key milestones
- 1529Appointed Lord Chancellor of England, the first layman to hold the office.
- 1535Executed for high treason after refusing the Oath of Supremacy.
- 1935Canonized by Pope Pius XI.
Themes
Ideal societyConscience and authorityChristian humanismJustice and lawSocial criticism
Sources: britannica.com · vatican.va · seop.illc.uva.nl
