Essential reading for anyone venturing on a serious study of the minefiled of literature which centres on More. Professor Guy with clarity and erudiation shows how brilliantly, compassionately and sensitively it can be done. (Church Times)The indisputable fact about More is that he had many admirers, culminating in his canonization in 1935. How has it happened? The 'spin' story has been believed. But historians have to expose that. Professor Guy, with clarity and erudition, shows how brilliantly, compassionately and sensitively it can be done. --Church TimesJohn Guy has scrutinized the layers of complex mythology surrounding this man, and systematically removed the prejudice and the propaganda. The precious image of Thomas More as the saintly but domesticated scholar dragged reluctantly into politics and martyred by a lustful tyrant is rocked on its pedestal. --English Historical ReviewA highly intelligent and complex study. While Guy raises as many questions as he answers, he has produced an intriguing and challenging study of an enigmatic man. --The Journal of the Historical Association. 2002-01-01

Part One: The History (What do we know?) This brief historical introduction to Thomas More explores the social, political and religious factors that formed the original context of his life and writings, and considers how those factors affected the way he was initially received. What was his impact on the world at the time and what were the key ideas and values connected with him? Part Two: The Legacy (Why does it matter?) This second part explores the intellectual and cultural 'afterlife' of Thomas More, and considers the ways in which his impact has lasted and been developed in different contexts by later generations. Why is he still considered important today? In what ways is his legacy contested or resisted? And what aspects of his legacy are likely to continue to influence the world in the future?