Thomas More: The Man and His Utopia
Sir Thomas More (7 February 1478 – 6 July 1535) was a Renaissance humanist and lawyer who served as Lord Chancellor of England during the rule of King Henry VIII. He was also the author of Utopia, considered one of the earliest works of fiction in the western world. His works focused on making the world a better place that was free from tyranny and worldly cares. More is honored as a patron saint of statesmen, attorneys, attorneys-general, civil servants, and politicians, as well as a patron of the Catholic Church.
Utopia
Utopia, one of More’s most instrumental works, was published in 1516. The book imagines a utopian society, called Utopia, that has eliminated much of the strife of More’s own time. Utopian life revolves around the concept of an ideal society with an orderly government, with an emphasis on justice, fairness and social stability. The novel focuses on a complex political and social structure, and is critical of the governments of Europe in the 16th century.
More’s Views on Social Equality and Human Rights
The novel delineates some of More’s own views on social equality, as well as his ideas about social justice, public responsibility, and human rights. More was a supporter of communal land ownership, and believed that the power of the church should be limited. He was also an advocate of religious liberty, free speech and art, the right to education, the right to marry and individual autonomy. More’s views greatly influenced the development of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
More’s Utopian Society
More’s Utopian society represented an idea of perfect social conditions, and was filled with political and social reforms. In the Utopian society, slavery and poverty do not exist, and all citizens are of equal social status and economic standing. Religion is strictly enforced, though in an organized and benign manner. Furthermore, all citizens are obligated to the law and to practice social justice, equality, and charity.
The Utopian Language
The Utopian language, invented by More in his novel Utopia, is one of the most fascinating aspects of the book. It is a language based on Ancient Greek and Latin, with elements of both modern and archaic ideas. Utopian language is designed to express the ideals More wished to put forth in his work.
Utopian Technology and Architecture
Utopia is also a revolutionary place in terms of architecture and technology. It is an agrarian society; however, the city is planned and organized to optimize efficiency and comfort. Utopia also boasts of a number of technological advancements, including a unique form of plumbing and heating systems.
Utopian Entertainment
Utopians also enjoy a number of activities and forms of entertainment. These activities include music, sports and recreation, theatrical performances, and other diversions.
More’s Legacy
Though Thomas More is best known for his work Utopia, his legacy lives on in many ways. More was a man of great political and moral courage, and was recognized in a number of fields, including history, philosophy, and law. His beliefs, though controversial, to this day shape the way we think about issues such as religious freedom, the rule of law, and social justice.
Sir Thomas More’s Utopia is a work of philosophical fiction that has delighted readers for centuries. More’s Utopian society is an ideal place, where all citizens are equal in social status, technology and culture are advanced, religious liberty and political freedom are respected, and leisure activities are enjoyed by all. This timeless work has given us a glimpse into a utopian world that has influenced many of our modern ideals and beliefs.