Explore the riveting trial of Sir Thomas More, a clash of unwavering principles and royal expectations. Discover the moral dilemmas faced by advisors in the shadow of a powerful king. Unpack the complexities surrounding silence as a defense in court and the twisting narratives behind the prosecution. Delve into the stark contrasts between More and Cromwell, revealing their moral complexities amid political intrigue. This historic drama raises questions still relevant today about loyalty, conscience, and the nature of justice.
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insights INSIGHT
Law as Shield vs. Tool
Thomas More and Thomas Cromwell were both lawyers and high-ranking legal figures with contrasting views on law.
More saw law as a shield protecting conscience; Cromwell viewed it as a tool for power and reform.
insights INSIGHT
Silence Is Not Treason
More refused to take the oath but never explicitly stated his reasons, insisting silence is not proof of treason.
His defense emphasized that the law protects private conscience from inference based on silence.
insights INSIGHT
Henry VIII’s Need for a Shield
Henry VIII wanted More to publicly support his break from Rome to protect his conscience and legitimize his second marriage.
More's refusal threatened Henry's image and policy, highlighting power struggles between personal conscience and royal will.
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Written in the early 16th century, 'The Prince' is a realistic instruction guide for new rulers. Machiavelli argues that an effective leader must be skilled in the art of war, sometimes cruel, and willing to use deception and manipulation to achieve political goals. The book is divided into chapters that discuss various types of principalities, how to acquire and maintain power, and the qualities a prince should possess. Machiavelli uses historical examples, including the career of Cesare Borgia, to illustrate his points. The treatise emphasizes the importance of maintaining the goodwill of the people and the stability of the state, even if it means deviating from traditional virtues. 'The Prince' remains a controversial but influential work in modern political philosophy.
A Man for All Seasons
Robert BOLT
The play, written by Robert Bolt, depicts the final years of Sir Thomas More, the 16th-century Lord Chancellor of England. It explores More's principled stance against King Henry VIII's desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon and his refusal to sign the Oath of Supremacy, declaring Henry the Supreme Head of the Church of England. The play delves into themes of conscience, identity, and the conflict between personal beliefs and political pressures. It follows More's journey from his position of power to his eventual execution, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his principles despite the severe consequences[4][5][1].
Wolf Hall
Hilary Mantel
Set during the English Reformation, 'Wolf Hall' brings to life the opulent and brutal world of the Tudors. The novel focuses on Thomas Cromwell, who rises from humble origins to become a powerful advisor to King Henry VIII. It explores themes of ambition, power, politics, religion, identity, and loyalty and betrayal, all set against the backdrop of Henry VIII's desire to marry Anne Boleyn and break from the Roman Catholic Church. Mantel's vivid imagery and sensory details create a rich sense of time and place, making historical characters relatable to contemporary readers[3][4][5].
In today’s episode another trial that forms the basis for great drama: the case of Thomas More, tried and executed in 1535, events dramatised by Robert Bolt in A Man for All Seasons and Hilary Mantel in Wolf Hall. How did More try to argue that silence was no evidence of treason? Why was his defence so legalistic? Was he really ‘the Socrates of England’? And who was the true villain in this case: Thomas Cromwell, Richard Rich or the King himself?
Available now on PPF+: Socrates part 2, in which David explores the verdict of history on this case and the fierce arguments it still inspires. Sign up now to get this and all our bonus episodes plus ad-free listening https://www.ppfideas.com/join-ppf-plus
Next time in Politics on Trial: Mary Queen of Scots vs the Secret State
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