The Life of Thomas More

Summary

The book «The Life of Thomas More» by Peter Ackroyd is a biography of Thomas More, a prominent English humanist, lawyer, and statesman of the Tudor era. Ackroyd provides a detailed account of More's life, from his childhood and education to his career as a lawyer and politician, as well as his friendship with Erasmus of Rotterdam. Special attention is given to his service at the court of Henry VIII, where More became Lord Chancellor, and his conflict with the king over his refusal to acknowledge the annulment of Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon. The book also explores his literary achievements, including the famous «Utopia». Ackroyd delves into More's inner convictions, his religious views, and his steadfastness in the face of execution following his refusal to swear allegiance to the Act of Supremacy. The biography highlights the complexity and multifaceted nature of More's character, his moral and ethical principles, and his influence on subsequent generations.