english common law from the 14th century until the middle of the last century made suicide a criminal act in england and wales. assisting others to kill themselves remains illegal in that jurisdiction. however, in the 16th century, thomas more, considered a saint by roman catholics, described a utopian community and envisaged such a community as one that would facilitate the death of those whose lives had become burdensome as a result of "torturing and lingering pain", see the meaning of the work.