In "A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS"why does More refuse to agree to the oath?what is the difference between More's understanding of what he's doing and typical expectations of morality and martyrdom?

Aside from Thomas More being considered a "saintly martyr", More is his own man. He does not simply agree to what the King wants or even what the Church wants. More thinks there is some force within him that acts on his individual conscience and that will be his compass. More refuses to compromise his inner values for a greater cause. This sets him apart from most other martyrs. More is expected to personify his cause at all times. More, however, is quick to temper external shows of passion or validation. He was always lead by an inner moral code that dictated what he fought for.