blog




  • Essay / A Man For All Seasons, by Fred Zinnemann - 1107

    The film A Man For All Seasons follows the diplomatic life of Sir Thomas More. The film opens with Sir Thomas, who was a sort of judge in an appeals court. At this time in history, King Henry VIII was legally married to Catherine of Aragon, his first wife. He intended to have an heir to the throne and Catherine would not give him any sons. This represented a great test for court officials and even for the Church. Henry wanted to divorce his first wife (who was six years his senior) and marry another, younger woman named Anne Boleyn. At this time the Church of England was ruled by the Pope, as well as the minor authorities, the cardinals. When Henry began to impose his opinion and his desire to take the head of the Church, to divorce Catherine of Aragon and to marry Anne Boleyn, one of Henry's friends resigned; a friend by the name of Sir Thomas More. During this time, more cautiously and wisely never said or expressed his frank opinions. Soon there was a horrible situation that could endanger anyone who disagreed with those who agreed with the king. More believed that if he resigned he would no longer have to get involved in any political issues. Henry VIII valued More's opinion on this matter more than that of his own advisors, but he was too hot-headed and impatient to understand More and what he thought, let alone the delicacy of the situation . At this time (1500), England was much more structured in the political and monarchical domain, as the Magna Charta (the first charter) had been signed many years ago and had come into force in the meantime. Kings always thought they could hold all the power, and everyone was under pressure to serve the king and have no opinion other than their own. England had a stronger political structure... middle of paper... vibrant family life, which made the country much stronger. England weathered World War I and World War II, and Elizabeth II ascended the throne just a few years after World War II. The influence of the queens of England has been that of peace, and Elizabeth is a queen who has maintained and continues to maintain the strength of her country. This film was a treat to watch. I love older films, and this one was superb. The casting was well chosen and I was mystified by the voice of the man who played Sir Thomas More. I later discovered that the actor was the same man who narrated the Focus on The Family Radio Theater series “Narnia,” hosted by Douglas Gresham. After my discovery, I associated Thomas More with courage (more than before) and was amazed at how well he stood his ground. Thomas More is an inspiration to Christians because he lets God give him strength.