NON-AFRICAN DRAMA; Robert Bolt: A Man For All Seasons
What aspects of the Duke of Norfolk’s character are revealed by his relationship with More?
Explanation
Duke of Norfolk’s character art revealed by her relationship with More. The Duke of Norfolk (Thomas Howard) has been a staunch and sympathetic friend of More’s for many years. He visits More at the opening of the play where Rich is introduced to him by chance as an applicant. He eventually finds Rich employment in an effort to please More.
Their friendship becomes strained on the matter of the king’s divorce bid and subsequent re-marriage to Anne Boleyn, Norfolk’s niece. The Duke contends that More’s opposition to the bid is mere theory and absurd. This proves :hat he is a man of principles. He so well understands More that he can predict his movements.
He never wavers in his love and sympathy for More despite their differences on the king’s issue. He shows more :oncern for More when he resigns the chancellorship on the firm belief that the action of the king does not lead to a reformation but to war against the church.
After Cromwell’s interrogation of More at Hamption Court, the Duke speaks repeatedly in More’s defence urging him to “for think and repent of his obstinate opinions. It is only when Cromwell speaks threateningly of the king’s wishes that the Duke appears to acquiesce in the matter of More’s persecution. Again, this shows that he, Duke, takes their friendship seriously.
The Duke again after More’s interrogation advises him to accede to the king’s wishes.
In fury More insults the Duke but the Duke still manages to show considerable patience before finally losing his temper. At the Seventh Court Commission hearing the Duke and Cromwell almost quarrel openly at the manner in which. Cromwell is questioning the accused man.
During More’s trial for high treason, the Duke appears more considerate and restrained than Cromwell. He re-states that More’s life is in his own hands as it has always been hoping and pleading that More should shift ground but to no avail.
It is logical from the above to conclude that the Duke’s relationship with More is sustained to the end. Ironically, he has the unfortunate responsibility of presiding over More’s trial for high treason and pronouncing the death sentence.