The letter reveals More as a man who despite his powerful position in society was wracked with doubts about publishing a book. His fears may be the result of several things. Firstly, it is the natural diffidence of all authors that their work will not be received well, but more importantly More knew it would not become a runaway bestseller because it was not escapist fiction. Instead, the book sets forth a view of an ideal society yet at the same time criticizes contemporary society. That such a work may be perceived as subversive is quite likely. More is very objective in his assessment of his work, but he thinks that even if a few benefit from it, his endeavor will be worthwhile. Again the reader is tempted to ask what is in the book.

The purpose of this letter is to pique interest in the book as well as lend credibility to it. Even though Hythloday does not exist and the conversation with him never took place, More wants the reader to believe it did. That a man of his stature undertook such a venture also lends certain credence in its importance.

Table of Contents | Printable Version