Early Life and Education:
Thomas More was born on February 7, 1478, in London, England, to Sir John More, a prominent lawyer and judge, and Agnes Graunger. More received his early education at St. Anthony's School in London. At the age of 12, he became a page in the household of John Morton, the Archbishop of Canterbury and Lord Chancellor of England. Morton's influence and support were crucial in More's intellectual development and career.
In 1492, More went to Oxford University, where he studied Latin and Greek and developed a deep interest in classical literature and philosophy. He later studied law at New Inn, one of the Inns of Chancery, before moving on to Lincoln's Inn, one of the Inns of Court, where he was called to the bar in 1501.
Career and Public Service:
More quickly established himself as a successful lawyer and was appointed an undersheriff of the City of London in 1510. His reputation for integrity and fairness earned him the respect of his peers and the public.
In 1516, More published "Utopia," a work of political philosophy that describes an idealized society on an imaginary island. The book reflects More's humanist ideals and critiques contemporary European society.
More's career in public service advanced when he was elected to Parliament and later served in various diplomatic missions for King Henry VIII. He became a close advisor to the king, who valued his intellect and counsel.
In 1529, More succeeded Cardinal Thomas Wolsey as Lord Chancellor of England. As Lord Chancellor, More was known for his vigorous prosecution of heretics and his staunch defense of the Catholic Church.
Conflict with Henry VIII:
More's relationship with Henry VIII deteriorated over the king's desire to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. More, a devout Catholic, could not support the king's decision to break with the Roman Catholic Church and establish the Church of England, with the king as its supreme head.
In 1532, More resigned as Lord Chancellor, citing ill health and his growing disapproval of the king's actions. His resignation did not protect him from the king's wrath. In 1534, More refused to take the Oath of Supremacy, which acknowledged Henry as the Supreme Head of the Church of England. His refusal was considered treason.
Imprisonment and Execution:
More was arrested and imprisoned in the Tower of London in April 1534. Despite intense pressure, he refused to recant his beliefs. In July 1535, More was tried and convicted of treason. He was sentenced to death and executed by beheading on July 6, 1535.
More's final words were, "I die the King's good servant, but God's first," reflecting his unwavering commitment to his faith and conscience.
Legacy and Canonization:
Thomas More was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1935 by Pope Pius XI. He is remembered as a martyr who chose to die rather than compromise his religious beliefs. More is also celebrated for his contributions to literature and political thought, particularly through his work "Utopia."
His life and moral integrity have been the subject of numerous works of literature and drama, most notably Robert Bolt's play "A Man for All Seasons," which highlights More's steadfastness and principle in the face of immense pressure.
Saint Thomas More's legacy endures as a symbol of the conflict between conscience and authority, and his life continues to inspire those who value integrity, justice, and faith.
