Utopia Wealth Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Book.Page) based on the 1989 Cambridge University Press edition

Quote #1

Then I said, "It is clear, my dear Raphael, that you seek neither wealth nor power" (1.13)

This is one of the first things More says to Hythloday as their debate gets going. Right off the bat, we know that Hythloday isn't interested in wealth. Is this some sort of foreshadowing for the descriptions of Utopia?

Quote #2

To make this hideous poverty worse, it exists side by side with wanton luxury. (1.20)

The only thing that Hythloday thinks is worse than wealth? Wealth that doesn't even help the poor. Might as well put a nasty thing to use, right?

Quote #3

But as a matter of fact, my dear More, to tell you what I really think, wherever you have private property, and money is the measure of all things, it is hardly ever possible for a commonwealth to be governed justly or happily (1.38)

Here, Hythloday really breaks it down for More. We think this one really speaks for itself. Private property = unhappiness.