Book One

Were there any passages that particularly struck you?  Why?  In what way – did you agree, disagree, laugh?

Why did More not just come out with his own views and propose them in the form of a utopian world?  Why does he use the "ruse" of a fictionally reported utopia?  Was More afraid to express his real views openly?

Have you noticed any irony or sarcasm in Book One?

What are some conditions, laws, and customs of England that Raphael criticizes?  Do they resemble things today?  How?  Does More agree with him?  How do you know?

Why should a philosopher advise a king, according to More?  Why not, according to Raphael?  How does this relate to contemporary America?

What does Raphael say is the main reason that there are thieves in England?  Do his comments seem reasonable?  Are they still reasonable today?  Why or why not?

Which speaker’s ideas seem to be privileged in this dialogue?  What makes you conclude that one position is favored over another?

Book Two

How is Utopia protected against outside attackers (secure harbor, cut off from mainland, strong fortifications, moats)?  Why is it necessary for them to take such precautions?

How would you describe More’s attitude toward farming, based on the Utopian plan for agriculture?  Would such a system work in the real world?

Consider the political system of Utopia – the manner of representation, the terms of office, the special rules governing consideration of new laws. Which elements of the Utopian system would you like to see introduced into our system, and why? Which would be unsuccessful in our system?

What about the Utopian cities suggests that they reflect careful, logical planning?  Does the general environment sound attractive?  Why or why not?

Does the Utopians’ manner of dress appeal to you?  Why do you think More proposes such utilitarian clothing?  Do you think such a system of clothing would be feasible?

What do the Utopians believe to be the purpose of human existence (i.e, source of happiness)?   How is this happiness to be achieved?  Does this seem like a reasonable plan of life? What do you see as pleasurable? What would More say about contemporary ideas about pleasure?

What do you think of religion in Utopia?

How do the Utopians think about the conventional idea of “riches” – material possessions, gold and jewels?  Why do you think More writes so about wealth?  What is the value of gold and other commodities in our world?  Does it matter that More himself was wealthy?

What would More's Utopia be like if he had written it in the year 2004?

What would More think of America today?