Utopia: The Influential Classic

Utopia is a book published in 1516 in Latin with the enigmatic Greek-derived word as its title. It gives a traveler's account of a newly discovered island somewhere in the New World where the inhabitants enjoy a social order based purely on natural reason and justice. Written by Sir Thomas More, it explores topics such as money, property, crime, education, religious tolerance, euthanasia, and feminism and is as relevant today as when it was written in Antwerp 500 years ago.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2021
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

In 1516, a remarkable book was published in Latin, bearing an enigmatic Greek-derived title: Utopia. This word, which could signify either a "good-place" or a "no-place," offers a captivating account of a newly discovered island nestled in the New World, where the inhabitants experience a society founded upon pure natural reason and justice. As the traveler vividly describes the harmonious, prosperous, and egalitarian society he encounters, a stark contrast emerges between the ideal community he portrays and the poverty, crime, and often terrifying political conditions of 16th-century Europe. Authored by the esteemed Sir Thomas More (1477–1535), a rising intellectual luminary of the Renaissance and, ultimately, the advisor and friend of Henry VIII, who tragically met his end due to his unwavering Catholic opposition to the king, Utopia is a profound and intricate work.

Presented in the form of a Platonic dialogue, Utopia delves into a wide range of topics, including money, property, crime, education, religious tolerance, euthanasia, and feminism. Often hailed as a celebration of communism, as evidenced by Lenin's inscription of More's name on a statue in Moscow, Utopia has also been perceived as a defense of traditional medieval values. This remarkable book initiated a lineage of utopian thinkers who employ storytelling to explore innovative possibilities for human society, and its relevance remains as profound today as when it was penned in Antwerp over 500 years ago.

Embark on a journey to explore these issues through the lens of the Renaissance, shedding light on the perspectives and ideas that shaped this transformative era. Delve into the enigmatic mind of the man who dared challenge the authority of Henry VIII, gaining insight into his courage and convictions. Appreciate the postmodern possibilities of Platonic dialogue, as Utopia employs this form to engage in thought-provoking discussions and explore new horizons for human society.

As part of the bestselling Capstone Classics series, curated by Tom Butler-Bowdon, this edition of Utopia features an introduction by a writer, economist, and historian, providing valuable context and insights into the work. Whether you view Utopia as an early communist tract or a defense of medieval values, this book offers a captivating window into the mind of a Renaissance visionary and his profound contributions to the world of ideas.

Weight: 352g
Dimension: 137 x 204 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781119754381