If you're a fan of classic literature, then the name Thomas More is probably familiar to you. More was a 16th-century English lawyer, social philosopher, and statesman who is best known for his masterpiece "Utopia." However, this is just one of the many books by Thomas More that have stood the test of time and continue to be relevant today. In this article, we'll explore some of More's most notable works and why they are worth reading.
The Life and Legacy of Thomas More
Before we dive into More's books, let's take a brief look at his life and legacy. More was born in London in 1478 and was educated at Oxford University. He went on to study law and became a successful lawyer, eventually serving as the Lord Chancellor of England under King Henry VIII. More was a devout Catholic and opposed Henry's decision to break away from the Catholic Church, which ultimately led to his execution in 1535.
Despite his tragic end, More is remembered as a brilliant thinker and writer. His works have influenced countless scholars and writers over the centuries, and his ideas continue to shape our understanding of politics, ethics, and human nature.
Books by Thomas More
Utopia
| Title | Utopia |
| Year of Publication | 1516 |
| Genre | Social and Political Satire |
| Summary | "Utopia" is a fictional dialogue between More and a traveler named Raphael Hythloday, who describes his experiences in a perfect society on an imaginary island. More uses this setting to critique the political and social problems of his own time, including poverty, war, and corruption. |
"Utopia" is undoubtedly More's most famous work and is often considered one of the greatest works of political satire in history. The book's title has become synonymous with an ideal society, even though the society depicted in the book is far from perfect. "Utopia" is a must-read for anyone interested in political philosophy or social criticism.
The History of King Richard III
| Title | The History of King Richard III |
| Year of Publication | unfinished at the time of More's death in 1535 |
| Genre | Historical Fiction |
| Summary | "The History of King Richard III" is a biography of the infamous English monarch, who was killed in the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. More's account of Richard III is highly critical and portrays him as a cruel and tyrannical ruler who murdered his own nephews to secure his claim to the throne. |
"The History of King Richard III" is a fascinating look at one of the most controversial figures in English history. More's portrayal of Richard III influenced later writers, including William Shakespeare, who wrote his own play about the king. Even today, historians and scholars continue to debate Richard III's legacy, making this book a must-read for history buffs.
A Dialogue of Comfort against Tribulation
| Title | A Dialogue of Comfort against Tribulation |
| Year of Publication | 1534 |
| Genre | Religious Writing |
| Summary | "A Dialogue of Comfort against Tribulation" is a religious treatise that More wrote while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. The book is a conversation between More and a friend who is suffering from persecution for his religious beliefs. More offers words of comfort and encouragement, drawing on his own experiences as a devout Catholic in a time of religious upheaval. |
"A Dialogue of Comfort against Tribulation" is a moving and deeply personal work that offers insight into More's faith and his struggles as a religious minority in England. The book is a testament to More's strength of character and his unwavering commitment to his beliefs.
How to Download Books by Thomas More
If you're interested in reading any of More's books, you're in luck. Many of his works are in the public domain and can be downloaded for free online. Simply search for "books by Thomas More" on your preferred search engine and follow the links to download them. Alternatively, you can visit sites like Project Gutenberg or the Internet Archive to find free e-book versions of More's works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other books did Thomas More write?
In addition to the books mentioned above, More wrote several other works, including "The Four Last Things," "A Treatise on the Passion," and "The Sadness of Christ." He also wrote numerous letters and essays on a wide range of topics.
What was Thomas More's philosophy?
More was a humanist who believed in the power of reason and the importance of education. He was also a devout Catholic who believed in the importance of living a virtuous life and serving others. More's philosophy emphasized the importance of individual conscience and personal responsibility.
Why is "Utopia" so famous?
"Utopia" is famous because it offers a vision of an ideal society that has captured the imagination of readers for centuries. The book's title has become synonymous with a perfect or ideal society, even though the society depicted in the book is far from perfect. "Utopia" is also famous for its critique of the political and social problems of More's own time, which are still relevant today.
Conclusion
Books by Thomas More are timeless classics that continue to inspire and challenge readers today. Whether you're interested in political philosophy, history, or religion, More's works offer insights and wisdom that are as relevant now as they were in the 16th century. So why not download one of his books today and discover the wisdom of this great thinker for yourself?
References:
- https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Thomas-More
- https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/thomas-more/
- https://www.history.com/topics/british-history/thomas-more
