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47 pages 1 hour read

A Man For All Seasons

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1960

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Book Brief

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Robert Bolt

A Man For All Seasons

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1960
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

England • 16th century

Publication Year

1960

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Man for All Seasons by Robert Bolt follows Sir Thomas More, a devout Catholic lawyer who opposes King Henry VIII's desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon and establish the Church of England. Despite pressures from various figures, More remains steadfast in his beliefs, leading to his eventual arrest and execution. The play highlights themes of integrity, conscience, and the conflict between church and state, featuring executions and political manipulation.

Contemplative

Challenging

Inspirational

Suspenseful

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.2

14,943 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Robert Bolt's A Man For All Seasons is widely praised for its compelling portrayal of Sir Thomas More's moral integrity and its rich, thought-provoking dialogue. Critics highlight its historical accuracy and powerful performances in adaptations. Some find the pacing slow and dialogue-heavy, but overall, it's celebrated for its intellectual depth and dramatic resonance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Man For All Seasons?

A reader who enjoys A Man For All Seasons by Robert Bolt would likely appreciate historical dramas that delve into moral dilemmas and the conflicts between individual conscience and authority. Fans of Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel or The Crucible by Arthur Miller would find similar themes of integrity and resistance against political and social pressures.

4.2

14,943 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Sir Thomas More

An English lawyer and chancellor to King Henry VIII, known for his devout Catholic faith and strong convictions. Portrayed as a steadfast character who faces conflict due to his beliefs.

A Brechtian character who provides omniscient narration and plays multiple roles, such as More's steward and an executioner. Represents the perspective of ordinary people and often breaks the fourth wall.

Includes his wife, Alice, his daughter, Margaret, and her husband, William Roper. Margaret shares a close relationship with More, while Alice and Roper have complicated dynamics with him.

A key advisor to Henry VIII and a character foil to More. Known for his pragmatic and political maneuvering within the shifting religious landscape of the Reformation.

A young lawyer who advances his career by betraying More. His journey illustrates the theme of moral compromise for personal gain.

A politically successful nobleman with ties to Anne Boleyn, portrayed as a reluctant participant in the actions against More. His character explores themes of political opportunism and fidelity to personal beliefs.

The Spanish ambassador and staunch advocate for Catherine of Aragon. He expresses frustration with More's neutral stance on the religious and political turmoil.

The King of England, known for his volatile temperament and desire for a divorce. His interactions with More highlight their contrasting characters and the king's determination for support.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

England • 16th century

Publication Year

1960

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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