The Cart Before the Horse

I have really enjoyed reading Utopia and exploring the intricacies of the 'ideal' society. The most logical aspect of the reading is More's introduction to Book 2, meaning Book 1. I wasn't aware that it had been written prior to Book 2 but it makes perfect sense. If you had an very radical idea that you wanted to present to someone, especially the literate public, you would present it in a way that would be most appealing and logical.

More is brilliant in his delivery of societal ideals that he feels would be effective in England. He presents it in a very open format, prose, and centers his introduction around a very informal conversation had with a new acquaintance. He isn't coming off as preachy or reformist, just informative and a bit introspective as to whether or not the practices of Utopia would be effective in his society. His use of serio ludere, as Daniel explained it, is pretty sneaky because it gives him the opportunity to present his ideas as coming from an outside source. He is then able to comment and give feedback on his own ideas via his own character. I really love that More is basically writing about a conversation with himself. But back to the point, it is a brilliant tactic that enables the presentation of personal ideas and ideals because they have been effective elsewhere. (Even though we all know that his story is complete hogwash.)

More's references to Utopia and how well their society operates gives extra credence to the discussion. Anytime actual outcomes can be offered and discussed in reference with social theories, the likelihood of those theories being accepted will increase. More's presentation and delivery is exhibited in such a way that, regardless of the content, Utopian ideals will more probably be considered and possibly accepted since they are effective elsewhere. I don't think More could have written this text in a better format if his intention was to inform and convert in a non intrusive way.