Sir Thomas More (1478–1535) was a prominent English lawyer, philosopher, statesman, and Renaissance humanist during the early 16th century. In this post, we share some famous Thomas More quotes to reflect upon for daily inspiration.

Early Life

Best known for his work “Utopia” and his eventual martyrdom due to his opposition to the policies of King Henry VIII, More’s life and legacy are multifaceted and have left a lasting impact on literature, politics, and the Catholic Church.

Thomas More was born in London to a distinguished family. His father, Sir John More, was a successful lawyer and judge. Thomas received an excellent education, studying at St. Anthony’s School in London and later at Oxford University.

His intellect and erudition caught the attention of influential figures. Eventually, he entered the legal profession and became a barrister at Lincoln’s Inn.

A Passion for Literature

In addition to his legal career, More developed a passion for literature and philosophy. He was deeply influenced by the humanist movement. This period of time emphasized the revival of classical learning, and a focus on human values and potential.

More’s most famous work, “Utopia,” was published in 1516. It is a philosophical and political treatise that explores an ideal society on an imaginary island. In “Utopia,” More critiques the social, political, and economic conditions of his time. He also offers a vision of an egalitarian and just society.

Political Ambitions

Despite his philosophical inclinations, More actively participated in politics. Throughout this career, he served in various government positions, including membership in the Privy Council and as a diplomat.

His diplomatic missions took him to the Netherlands and France, where he negotiated on behalf of King Henry VIII. In 1529, More became the Lord Chancellor of England, the highest legal office in the country.

However, More’s career took a dramatic turn as he soon faced a moral and ethical dilemma.

The Act of Supremacy

King Henry VIII sought to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon and marry Anne Boleyn. More, a devout Catholic, could not support the king’s actions, as they contradicted the teachings of the Church.

More resigned as Lord Chancellor in 1532, citing health reasons. However, it was his refusal to take an oath recognizing the king as the Supreme Head of the Church of England that ultimately led to his downfall.

In 1534, the Act of Supremacy declared the king the supreme head of the Church. This was a position that More could not accept. His refusal to swear the oath led to his arrest. And in 1535, he was tried for treason. Despite More’s legal acumen and defense of his conscience, the king convicted More and sentenced him to death.

On July 6, 1535, Thomas More was executed by beheading. His final words on the scaffold: “I die the king’s good servant, and God’s first.”

The Legacy of Thomas More

More’s stand for his religious beliefs and his refusal to compromise his conscience elevated him to the status of a martyr for religious freedom.

In 1935, the Catholic Church canonized Thomas More as a saint. Many remember his life and legacy not just for his contributions to literature and philosophy, but for his unwavering commitment to conscience.

Famous Thomas More Quotes

Below are famous Thomas More quotes from throughout his life. We hope these will be a source of inspiration and courage in your life.

“What is deferred is not avoided.”

“One of the greatest problems of our time is that many are schooled, but few are educated.”

“An absolutely new idea is one of the rarest things known to man.”

“What though youth gave love and roses, age still leaves us friends and wine.”

“You wouldn’t abandon the ship in a storm just because you couldn’t control the winds.”

“If honor were profitable, everybody would be honorable.”

Thomas More Quotes – Final Words

Sir Thomas More was a prominent English lawyer, philosopher, statesman, and Renaissance humanist during the early 16th century. More’s stand for his religious beliefs and his refusal to compromise his conscience elevated him to the status of a martyr for religious freedom. His life and legacy continue to leave a lasting impact on literature, politics, and the Catholic Church.

We hope you enjoyed these Thomas More quotes. Check out our site for more sources of inspiration.