How we cite our quotes: (Act.Paragraph)
Quote #4
ROPER: My views on the Church, I must confess—Since last we met my views have somewhat modified. (1.634)
Roper changes his deep-seated religious beliefs at the frequency that most people change pairs of underwear. Sure, he's a good dude (More wouldn't let him marry his daughter if he weren't), but he could never be described as principled.
Quote #5
MORE: [...] You see, we speak of being anchored to our principles. But if the weather turns nasty you up with an anchor and let it down where there's less wind, and the fishing's better. (1.717)
And here comes More blowing our "anchor" metaphor out of the water. Typical. Although he's talking about Roper here, he might as well be referring to every other character in the play. After all, does Norfolk follow his personal principles? Does Richard Rich? Nope. In both instances, seemingly good men turn against their deeply held principles simply to save their own skins.
Quote #6
CHAPUYS: Because it would show one man—and that man known to be temperate—unable to go further with this wickedness.
MORE: And that man known to be Chancellor of England too. (2.63)
More is tempted to make a stand against the King's divorce, but he's terrified of the consequences. That leaves him in an unenviable position—he's unable to turn against his personal principles, but he's equally unable to buck the system and make a stand. Talk about a sticky situation.