Skip to content

Thomas More still has some credit with the king. And he…

“Thomas More still has some credit with the king. And he has written him a letter, saying,” he manages to smile, “that I am Wycliffe, Luther and Zwingli rolled together and tied up in string—one reformer stuffed inside another, as for a feast you might parcel a pheasant inside a chicken inside a…” quote by Hilary Mantel
Download Open image
““Thomas More still has some credit with the king. And he has written him a letter, saying,” he manages to smile, “that I am Wycliffe, Luther and Zwingli rolled together and tied up in string—one reformer stuffed inside another, as for a feast you might parcel a pheasant inside a chicken inside a goose.””

Hilary Mantel

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote satulates the complexity of reformist ideas, suggesting they are layered and tangled like a stuffed bird.

In simple terms: Reform ideas are tangled and layered.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and untangle overlapping influences.

Themes

history religion politics complexity

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

literary historical political

When to use this quote

  • academic analysis
  • political debate
  • theological study

Key Concepts

Reformation syncretism identity power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do overlapping reformist ideas affect modern belief systems?
  • Can we separate individual influences within a composite?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may oversimplify distinct doctrines.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Hilary Mantel

Explore all 559 Hilary Mantel quotes

More Luther quotes

Browse all 589 Luther quotes