A Dead Lion

In some works of literature, a minor character is presented by the author to better serve his theme. This is true of the Common Man in A Man for All Seasons, by Robert Bolt.

In this play, political and religious leaders take center stage. It seems almost impossible for the average audience to find a genuine interest in Bolt's characters, but through the introduction of the Common Man, and his presence throughout the play, Robert Bolt pulls his hearers into the play on a more personal level. The Common Man is of no political valor, nor is he a particularly religious man. He admits in the first act that he is incredibly base, unfit to even open the scene (Bolt 3). Bolt uses this simple character to stir the attention of his more common audience. Once their attention is captivated, the Common Man takes on multiple small roles, leading Bolt's audience through the action of the play.

While Bolt utilizes his Common Man to move the play forward, he also fashions his character's thoughts and actions in a way that mirrors the ideals of his theme. Bolt reveals to his audience that it is impossible for one person to comprehend what is perfectly right and what is completely wrong. Instead, he encourages us to live by personal choices, striving to improve ourselves, and through this, our communities.

The Common man fails to realize Bolt's theme, and he flounders about in the midst of his own lies, drowning in his own guilt and scoffing at his leaders when they fail.

From the opening of the play, the Common Man is revealed as a liar. After taking several indulgent gulps of his master's wine, The Steward (played by the Common Man) remarks that he does not know if it is good (Bolt 4). In that simple, small lie, Bolt reveals the Common Man's contrast to his theme, and he continues to show this throughout his character's actions and words.

While the Common Man represents the opposite of Bolt's central theme, Sir Thomas More embodies it. More does not try to be an all knowing, perfectly moral man; he simply does what he is capable of. He realizes and sets Bolt's theme into place. Sir Thomas More is aware that the Moral Code is far too complex to even comprehend, let alone to personally take on, and so he lives by minuscule

choices, attempting to improve with each one. He is known for being "a true son of the Church" because of his admirable habits. More attends church, goes to confession, and lives a moral life (Bolt 40). All of these are minor choices, but when accumulated, they give him a reputable character.

In contrast, the Common Man seems to give up, taking the easiest or most beneficial path for himself. Through his contrast of More's character, the Common Man enhances and serves to further develop the theme for Bolt's audience. As Matthew, Steward to Thomas More, the Common Man fully reveals this contrast.

Accepting bribes for information on his master, Matthew is certainly not loyal, nor is he honest. But when Sir Thomas More suggests that the two men are friends, guilt settles in. Matthew disregards his conscience, excusing his own actions.

All right, so he's down on his luck! I'm