Between Erasmus and More, Abraxa(s), an Anamorphic Name

Abstract

Before Utopus conquered the island, it was called Abraxa. To create its initial name, Thomas More shortened the name of a deity, invented by the Syrian Christian gnostic teacher Basilides, Abraxas. This note seeks to explain this change by studying the occurrences of the word Abraxas in Erasmus’ work (edition of St Jerome’s works, Praise of Folly). Abraxa then appears as an anamorphic name, an effort of wisdom and a sign of pride. The utopian wisdom is condemned to death. The dialogue between Erasmus and More through this word shows how much the anamorphic woodcuts of Ambrosius Holbein are an excellent illustration of what Abraxa/Utopia is: an ironic invention of a self-conscious pride.