Tides of History Who was Thomas More? Interview with Dr. Joanne Paul
Jun 26, 2025
Dr. Joanne Paul, an Honorary Associate Professor in Intellectual History and author of 'Thomas More: A Life', explores the enigmatic figure of Thomas More. She discusses how More's tumultuous childhood in Tudor England shaped his views on authority and morality. The conversation dives into the complexities of his roles as a statesman, martyr, and persecutor. Paul also examines the subjective nature of historical narratives and the interplay between humanism and community in transforming identities during the Reformation.
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The Complex Identity of Thomas More
- Thomas More embodies multiple conflicting roles: scholar, statesman, persecutor, and saint.
- His complexity mirrors the tumultuous era he lived in, making him relevant even today.
More's Childhood Shapes His Beliefs
- Understanding More's childhood amidst the Wars of the Roses reveals formative influences on his later beliefs.
- Early historical events shaped his worldview and fears about political instability.
Reevaluating More's Birthplace
- Critical assessment of sources reveals More was likely born in Cripplegate, not Milk Street as traditionally claimed.
- Posthumous biographies often distort facts, so contemporary documents provide a clearer picture.
