Thomas More

Utopia

Early Modern influential 98 sayings

Sayings by Thomas More

I reckon that I have not offended the King's laws.

c. 1557 (referring to 1535) — During his trial, reported by William Roper
Controversial Unverifiable

I am loath to offend any man, but most of all the King.

1534 — Letter to Thomas Cromwell, 5 March 1534
Controversial Unverifiable

I have not taken the oath, because I cannot, with a safe conscience, swear to the preamble.

c. 1557 (referring to 1534) — During his examination in the Tower, reported by William Roper
Controversial Unverifiable

I have given over the world, and all the things in it, and I am now resolved to think only upon God and my soul.

1535 — Letter to Margaret Roper, May 1535
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not a man of many words, nor will I be, at this time.

c. 1557 (referring to 1535) — During his trial, reported by William Roper
Controversial Unverifiable

I have no doubt, but that I shall be saved, if I continue in the Catholic faith.

1535 — Letter to Margaret Roper, May 1535
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not so mad, as to play the part of a fool, to my own destruction.

c. 1557 (referring to 1534) — Reported by William Roper, when discussing his refusal to take the oath
Controversial Unverifiable

I verily think that no man may meddle with the King's marriage, but with peril of his life.

c. 1557 (referring to 1532) — Reported by William Roper, during a conversation with his wife
Controversial Unverifiable

I pray God to give me grace to stand fast in the faith.

1535 — Letter to Margaret Roper, May 1535
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not a man that can be driven to do anything against my conscience.

c. 1557 (referring to 1535) — During his examination in the Tower, reported by William Roper
Controversial Unverifiable

I trust to God, that I shall not fail him, for fear of losing my life.

1535 — Letter to Margaret Roper, May 1535
Controversial Unverifiable

I have not sought for any worldly honor, but only to serve God and the King.

1534 — Letter to Thomas Cromwell, 5 March 1534
Controversial Unverifiable

I would be loath to swear to a thing that I am not sure of.

c. 1557 (referring to 1534) — During his examination in the Tower, reported by William Roper
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not so much bound to the Queen, as I am to God.

c. 1557 (referring to 1535) — During his trial, reported by William Roper
Controversial Unverifiable

I have not offended the King, but I have offended God.

Unknown — Attributed, possibly apocryphal, but reflects his sentiment
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not so much afraid of death, as I am of sin.

1535 — Letter to Margaret Roper, May 1535
Controversial Unverifiable

I pray God to send me patience in my tribulation.

1535 — Letter to Margaret Roper, May 1535
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not so foolish, as to change my conscience for the King's pleasure.

c. 1557 (referring to 1532) — Reported by William Roper, during a conversation with his wife
Controversial Unverifiable