A Man For All Seasons

Important background information

King Henry VIII of England has become dissatisfied with his marriage to Catherine of Aragon [who was previously married to his brother]. The Pope granted a "dispensation" to allow what would normally be an unacceptable marriage. Now the King asks the Pope to grant another dispensation to annul his marriage to Lady Catherine and allow him to marry his mistress, Anne Boelyn who, he thinks, will be able to give birth to a son. Cardinal Woolsey is the Chancellor of England, the highest-ranking Catholic in England, and an advisor to the King. Sir Thomas More, the main character in this drama, is a member of the King’s High Counsel, and one of the most respected men in England.

As you watch, look for the ethical and moral arguments as they are spoken by the characters. Consider the views of: Sir Thomas More, Duke Norfolk, Cardinal Woolsey, William Roper, Richard Rich, Margaret More, and Cromwell. In addition, answer these questions as the answers provide themselves.

Listen carefully to the first exchange of the movie, it lays out the arguments of each of the main characters.

  1. Woolsey’s request places Sir Thomas More in an ethical dilemma. Explain More’s response, and Woolsey’s opinion of what is the best way for More to proceed.

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  2. When More offers Rich a position, he offers him one of a teacher.

    3. Does More respect teachers?[be careful]

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  3. When More is questioned by Duke Norfolk, yet won’t sign, Norfolk implies it is no big deal.

    4. Make Norfolk’s argument for him.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  4. What would More say to President Clinton on the eve of the State of the Union address?
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