More’s trial is one of the most famous since the trial of Socrates. Unlike Socrates, however, More was an experienced judge and lawyer who had prepared himself for his final trial over several years. At this trial, he was determined to bring all of his experience and training to bear—to defend not only himself and his family, but also his country, his church, the English tradition of law, and the future of Christendom. His keen sense of history assured him that his trial, like that of Socrates, would not be forgotten. Despite the opposition of his king, of all the bishops then in England (except the imprisoned Bishop Fisher), of his entire family, and of most of his friends, More stood fast in his convictions. He knew that, along with these people, the rest of history was waiting to hear his defense.