Utopia was written by Sir Thomas More and published in 1516. It is a work in which More speculates about an idealized society on an island called Utopia. This society can be thought of as the culmination of rational thought or Humanist beliefs, as an alternative to feudalism, as a statement in favor of communal society, or as an effort to promote reform according to Christian values. However, these different critical approaches are not mutually exclusive, and the author was certainly aware of the complexity of meanings embedded in his book.

Key Terms & People

Reference lists of key terms and people to consult as you study Utopia.

Deeper Study

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