WOF 484: Bishop Barron Joins Catholic Voices Podcast (Part 2 of 2)

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.

Written in 1516, 'Utopia' by Sir Thomas More is a seminal work of fiction that presents an ideal society on a fictional island. The book is divided into two parts: the first critiques the social and economic issues of early 16th-century England, while the second introduces the Utopian society as a potential solution. Utopia is characterized by communal property, no class distinctions or poverty, little crime, religious freedom, and a strict egalitarian system. More uses this imaginary society to highlight the flaws of European politics and society of his time, advocating for a more just and equal world. The work is notable for its influence on later socialist and communist thought and continues to be a subject of discussion in political theory and philosophy.