Thomas More’s Utopia is best understood as a form of social satire, specifically a conceptual satire that critiques contemporary societal norms and practices through the lens of an imaginary society. In Utopia, More creates a fictional island that embodies the ideal community, where common ownership and the absence of private property aim to eliminate greed and class struggles.
More uses this contrast between the flawed realities of 16th-century England and the seemingly perfect Utopian society to highlight the deficiencies in European social, political, and economic systems. By depicting a world where different values and structures prevail, he invites readers to reflect critically on their own society.
Moreover, More’s satire is subtle; rather than direct mockery, it often leads readers to draw conclusions about the inadequacies of their world. His use of irony plays a significant role, as the virtues of Utopia often serve to amplify the vices present in his own time. This layering of ideals against reality creates a thought-provoking commentary on human nature and societal organization.