Flexi Educational Consult
Flexi Educational Consult
A Man for All Seasons (1960) by Robert Bolt is a historical drama play set in 16th-century England under King Henry VIII. It dramatizes the conflict between Sir Thomas More's unwavering integrity and the king's demand for obedience regarding the Act of Supremacy and royal divorce. The play employs the Common Man as a chorus-like narrator and servant to highlight themes of conscience versus power. Originally a radio play (1954), it was adapted for stage (1960) and film (1966). It is studied in SSCE curricula as a classic of English drama exploring moral courage, hypocrisy, and the supremacy of personal conscience.
Act 1 introduces the Common Man playing multiple roles. Sir Thomas More debates with Richard Rich, refuses Cardinal Wolsey's request to endorse Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine of Aragon, and later confronts the king's pressure at a surprise supper. He refuses to support the marriage to Anne Boleyn. Act 2 covers two years later: More resigns as Lord Chancellor when Henry creates the Church of England, faces bribes and accusations from Thomas Cromwell (using Rich as witness), is imprisoned in the Tower of London, and is tried for treason. He dies by beheading, prioritizing conscience over life or oath. The Common Man ends by advising the audience to avoid trouble.