Die Stunde des Thomas Morus - Einer gegen die Macht

by Peter Berglar

This book explores the conscience and motivation of one of the most admired persons in history: St. Thomas More. Most people know that Thomas More wrote a book called Utopia about a perfect society and got his head chopped off by King Henry VIII. But there was much more to the man. More not only occupied England’s most powerful position under the king as Lord Chancellor, but was also a devoted family man, a Renaissance figure of renown throughout Europe, and the author of works of apologetics as well as poetry, fiction and plays. Even while awaiting execution in the Tower of London, his multi-volume “Tower writings” poured out, evidence of his deep faith and life of prayer.

Peter Berglar, who has written ten biographies including one of St. Peter, and one of the earliest studies of Opus Dei and its founder, St. Josemaría Escrivá, deals in this new translation of the original German with the ultimate question: for what is life not worth living? When must it be purchased at a price that could devalue and perhaps destroy it? “It has been repeated in every generation. There will never be a lack of idols and dictators who demand this sacrifice.”

Genres: Religion, Biography

490 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1978

Reviews

[Sebastián Morales Arcelus · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is no question that this book was made with tremendous dedication and study by the author. From a historical or bibliographical standpoint my rating would be 5/5.

However, I would have expected for the narrative to be more engaging. The book has so much information (which confirms the great job done by the author) that it often feels more like a source book rather than a book you would both like to enjoy and learn from in your free time. Hence my final rating (4/5).

As a final comment, I was truly amazed by the life of Thomas More who surely is an example as both human being and profesionist. Also, his conviction and faith in God does make you wonder and reflect on the existence of God, even as an atheist or non believer. The conviction behind Thomas' decisions and actions, and congruence between his mind and reality, does leave one thinking about the influence of God in ones life, if one's willing to receive it (not saying this is my case).

[Eric W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This interesting work is a biography of Saint Thomas Moore with a distinctly Christian perspective. Unlike a conventional, chronological biography, the book confronts the reader with several important questions: for what is life not worth living? When does one's conscience -- in this case, one's Christian faith -- require one to refuse submission to the will of the state? The book also takes special care to explain the the larger political environment, as well the state of Christian thought, with an emphasis on Erasmus. Berglar also introduces the reader to More's most important works, especially those that shed light on his actions with regard to the the king's "great matter," i.e., whether Henry could annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, as well as the surrounding political and religious questions.

The book is more thoughtful and more worthwhile than a conventional biography, and, for most Christians, probably more rewarding.

[Jake Justen · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot of information about St. Thomas More, the contemporary protestant revolt, contemporary culture, and the English monarch. A lot of information, especially for only being about 200 pages. While heavy on detail, though, the book is rather light on a narrative flow. Still, this is a good book to read in Adoration and contemplate the saint's life and martyrdom.

[Hector Vela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author of great erudition, well written book

Peter Berglar shows More’s life with great detail based on both his deeds and his writings, the result is a picture of More that is seen as More himself. Great work!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A remarkable history of time Sir Thomas' life, character and conviction.