Thomas More was a complex man in complicated times

As complex figures go, you can’t get much more complex than Sir Thomas More. Was he a Saint? Was he a Sinner? Was he simply a man of his time?

Dr Joanne Paul seeks to answer these questions in her book ‘Thomas More. A Life and Death in Tudor England’ which explores More’s roles as a statesman, scholar, and martyr, and understand how his beliefs, actions, and the historical context shaped his enduring reputation.

(WE WILL BE COVERING JOANNE'S BOOK IN BOOK CLUB ON 24TH MAY - JOIN IN AT PATREON.COM/BRITISHHISTORY)

In my interview with Joanne, filmed at the Harvington History Festival 2025, I asked her about Thomas More's multifaceted identity, his role in Henry VIII's court, his religious beliefs and persecution of heretics, and his influence on political and religious history.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Thomas More and his significance

01:45 Different ways people encounter Thomas More

02:40 Was Thomas More as complex as his legacy suggests?

03:46 The importance of understanding his life in context

05:46 More's family and personal beliefs

07:53 The roots of his religious fervor and fear

08:54 His stance on heretics and persecution

10:53 His beliefs about society and community

12:55 The impact of the Reformation on his views

13:46 Where to find more about Joanne Paul and her work

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About Philippa

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