Thomas More’s Biography (1478-1535)
Early Life and Education:
Thomas More was born in London on February 7, 1478. He was raised in a prosperous household, receiving an education that was exceptional for the time. More studied at St. Anthony’s School in London and later at Oxford University, where he was exposed to humanist learning. His education continued at the New Inn and Lincoln’s Inn, where he trained as a lawyer.
Career:
- Legal Career: More was called to the bar in 1501 and quickly established himself as an able lawyer. He served as an Under-Sheriff of London, a position he held for eight years, gaining a reputation for integrity and fairness.
- Political Career: More’s political ascent began when he entered Parliament in 1504. His career peaked when he served as Speaker of the House of Commons in 1523. In 1529, he was appointed Lord Chancellor, one of the highest offices in England, succeeding Cardinal Wolsey. His tenure was marked by his commitment to justice and opposition to corruption.
- Fall from Grace: More’s career ended tragically due to his refusal to accept Henry VIII’s Act of Supremacy, which made the King the head of the Church of England. His opposition led to his resignation in 1532, arrest in 1534, and eventual execution for treason in 1535.
Family:
More valued family life, marrying Jane Colt in 1505, with whom he had four children. After Jane died in 1511, he married Alice Middleton, a widow. More’s home was a hub of intellectual activity, where he educated his daughters to a high standard, which was unusual for women of the time. His family life reflected his humanist principles, emphasizing education and moral education.
Works:
- Utopia (1516): More’s most famous work, “Utopia“, describes an ideal society on an imaginary island where the property is communal, and there is religious tolerance. This work influenced political and social thought significantly.
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Other Writings: More was prolific, writing on various subjects:
- The History of King Richard III: A historical work that has influenced Shakespeare’s portrayal of Richard III.
- Religious and Polemical Works: Including “A Dialogue Concerning Heresies” and “The Apology of Sir Thomas More, Knight”.
- Letters: His correspondence provides insight into his life, thoughts, and the political climate of his time.
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Legacy:
Thomas More’s life ended with his martyrdom, and he was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1935 as Saint Thomas More, recognized for his commitment to his faith and principles. His works, particularly “Utopia”, have left a lasting impact on literature, philosophy, and political theory, while his life story remains a significant study in the balance between personal belief and public duty. His name has become synonymous with the concept of a principled stand against power, making him an enduring figure in both historical and literary studies.
Credit: Wikipedia
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