Theory question 108
Other Set Texts: Non-African DramaLiterature 2, Section B. Robert Bolt: A Man For All Seasons
Discuss the conflict between Sir Thomas More and the authorities.
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Model answer
Henry VIII wants to divorce Catherine and marry Anne Boleyn and wants More's public approval.
More, as Lord Chancellor and a Catholic, will not approve; he resigns.
Cromwell, the King's agent, looks for evidence against him; Rich is used to trap him.
The Act of Supremacy and the oath: More refuses to swear but keeps silent about his reasons, relying on the law.
He is imprisoned in the Tower and loses his family's comfort.
At his trial Rich commits perjury; More is condemned and executed.
The conflict is between conscience and the power of the state.
Explanation
Trace the conflict to its end.