The Collected Works (eBook)

Sir Thomas More (1478–1535) was an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, statesman, and noted Renaissance humanist. He served Henry VIII as Lord Chancellor and was recognized for his wisdom and learning, which traversed multiple disciplines. More's literary contributions are significant, with 'Utopia' (1516) being his most celebrated work. This socio-political satire delves into the complex dynamics of a fictional island society, and its name has since engendered the term 'utopian,' denoting an idealized or visionary state or system. 'The Collected Works of Thomas More' includes 'Utopia' along with his other writings, showcasing his scholarly acumen and literary craftsmanship. His style, marked by wit and classical dialogue, has been studied extensively, exploring his engagement with themes of morality, governance, and the conflicts between conscience and duty. More's conviction in his principles led to a fatal opposition to the King's separation from the Catholic Church, resulting in his execution and later canonization by the Church. His life and oeuvre have been subject to scholarly attention, depicting him as a man of both intellectual prowess and moral integrity. More's work and humanist thought remain influential in literary and philosophical discourses, underlining his enduring legacy in Western intellectual history.