Murder in the Cathedral

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1935

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Before You Read

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Interlude

Part 2, Scene 1

Part 2, Scene 2

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Murder in the Cathedral opens with commentary from the chorus. Given the fact that this particular chorus consists of disenfranchised women, what is the significance of allowing the chorus to speak first?

King Henry II never appears in the play, but Eliot ensures that his presence is felt. How does the king’s invisible presence influence the plot and the dialogue?

Murder in the Cathedral focuses on a very specific moment in the life of Thomas Becket. Identify at least three references made to other significant moments of his life, and research these in greater detail. How does Eliot draw upon common historical knowledge to develop the on-stage version of Thomas Becket?