HIS OWN GOOD DAUGHTER

The life of Sir Thomas More seen from the vantage point of his oldest and closest daughter Meg reflects the idealism and faith that eventually caused his execution at the bands of King Henry VIII. As Undersheriff of London in 1515, Sir Thomas refused a high royal position in order to pursue his scholarly endeavors. The rapport that existed between father and daughter was strengthened by Sir Thomas' belief in the education of women. Possessed of an unusually fine mind, Meg studied the classics, conversed with Erasmus and was able to deal with her father in the most crudite matters. So dear was she, that Sir Thomas refused to accept the doctor's gloomy pronouncements and nursed her back to health when she had been stricken with disease. It was only fitting that Meg marry William Roper, also a great scholar, and that she continue her education. As Chancellor to the King, Sir Thomas becomes embroiled in the battle over Henry's divorce from Queen Catherine and when the chips are down, he cannot defy his deep-rooted scruples by signing the Oath of Allegiance. The final scenes between father and daughter prior to and following his execution are the most poignant in a book that should interest older high school students familiar with the characters, the times or the issues.