“Murder in the Cathedral” is a play written by T.S. Eliot that tells the story of the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. The play explores the themes of power, politics, and religion, and is a powerful commentary on the nature of martyrdom and the struggle for freedom. In this article, we will provide a summary of the play and examine its significance in the context of Eliot’s work.
The Historical Context
The historical context of T.S. Eliot’s “Murder in the Cathedral” is crucial to understanding the play’s themes and message. The play is set in 1170, during a time of great political and religious turmoil in England. King Henry II was in a power struggle with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, who had once been his close friend and advisor. Becket had become a staunch defender of the Church’s independence from the state, and this put him at odds with the king’s desire for more control over the Church.
In December of 1170, four knights loyal to the king assassinated Becket in Canterbury Cathedral, an act that shocked the nation and led to Becket’s eventual canonization as a saint. Eliot’s play explores the events leading up to Becket’s murder, as well as the aftermath and the impact it had on England’s political and religious landscape.
Eliot wrote “Murder in the Cathedral” in the 1930s, a time when Europe was once again on the brink of war and political tensions were high. The play can be seen as a warning against the dangers of political power and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of persecution. By setting the play in a historical context, Eliot is able to draw parallels between the events of the past and the present, and to offer a timeless message about the importance of individual conscience and the struggle for freedom.
The Plot of the Play
The plot of “Murder in the Cathedral” revolves around the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. The play is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Becket’s return to England after seven years in exile and his conflict with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the Church. The second part depicts the events leading up to Becket’s murder, including his refusal to submit to the king’s demands and his eventual martyrdom at the hands of four knights. Throughout the play, Eliot explores themes of power, loyalty, and sacrifice, as well as the tension between the spiritual and temporal realms.
The Characters
The characters in “Murder in the Cathedral” are complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own motivations and desires. The most prominent character is Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, who is torn between his loyalty to the church and his duty to his country. Becket is a tragic figure, struggling to reconcile his faith with the political realities of his time. His eventual martyrdom is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. Other notable characters include the four tempters, who represent the various worldly temptations that Becket must resist, and the chorus, who provide commentary on the action and serve as a Greek chorus of sorts. Together, these characters create a rich and compelling narrative that explores the complexities of faith, power, and morality.
The Themes
The themes of “Murder in the Cathedral” are complex and multifaceted. One of the most prominent themes is the tension between the individual and the community. The play explores the conflict between the Archbishop’s desire to follow his conscience and the pressure he feels from the community to conform to their expectations. Another important theme is the struggle between faith and politics. The play raises questions about the role of religion in society and the relationship between church and state. Finally, “Murder in the Cathedral” is a meditation on the nature of power and the corrupting influence it can have on those who wield it. Through its exploration of these themes, the play offers a powerful critique of the human condition and the forces that shape our lives.
The Symbolism
The symbolism in “Murder in the Cathedral” is rich and complex, adding depth and meaning to the tragic tale. One of the most prominent symbols is the cathedral itself, which represents the Church and its power. The cathedral is a place of sanctuary and safety, but it is also a symbol of the corruption and greed that can infect even the holiest of institutions. The characters in the play are also heavily symbolic, with each representing a different aspect of humanity. Thomas Becket, for example, represents the struggle between worldly power and spiritual devotion, while the four tempters represent the various temptations that can lead people astray. The symbolism in “Murder in the Cathedral” is both subtle and powerful, adding layers of meaning to an already complex and thought-provoking play.
The Use of Chorus
The use of chorus in “Murder in the Cathedral” is a significant aspect of the play. The chorus serves as a collective voice of the people of Canterbury, expressing their thoughts and feelings about the events that unfold. The chorus also provides commentary on the actions of the characters, offering insight into their motivations and the consequences of their choices. Additionally, the chorus serves as a reminder of the religious context of the play, with their hymns and prayers emphasizing the themes of martyrdom and redemption. Overall, the use of chorus adds depth and complexity to the play, enhancing the audience’s understanding of the tragic events that take place.
The Role of Religion
Religion plays a significant role in T.S. Eliot’s “Murder in the Cathedral.” The play is set in the 12th century and revolves around the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. Eliot explores the themes of faith, martyrdom, and the power struggle between the church and the state. The play highlights the importance of religion in shaping the political and social landscape of medieval England. Eliot’s portrayal of Becket as a martyr who chooses to die for his faith rather than compromise his principles is a powerful commentary on the role of religion in society. The play also raises questions about the relationship between religion and power, and the extent to which the church should be involved in politics. Overall, “Murder in the Cathedral” is a thought-provoking exploration of the complex role of religion in shaping human behavior and society.
The Language and Style
T.S. Eliot’s “Murder in the Cathedral” is a play that is written in verse, which is a form of poetry. The language used in the play is highly stylized and formal, which is appropriate for the subject matter. The characters speak in a way that is reminiscent of the language used in medieval times, which adds to the historical and religious context of the play. Eliot’s use of language and style is effective in creating a sense of tension and drama throughout the play, and it helps to convey the themes of power, faith, and martyrdom. Overall, the language and style of “Murder in the Cathedral” are integral to the play’s success and contribute to its enduring popularity.
The Reception of the Play
The reception of “Murder in the Cathedral” was mixed upon its initial release. Some critics praised Eliot’s poetic language and the play’s exploration of themes such as martyrdom and the struggle between church and state. However, others found the play to be overly didactic and lacking in dramatic tension. Despite these initial reactions, “Murder in the Cathedral” has since become a staple of modern theater and continues to be performed around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Eliot’s skill as a playwright and his ability to create a timeless work of art.
The Significance of the Play
The play “Murder in the Cathedral” by T.S. Eliot is a significant work of literature that explores the themes of power, faith, and martyrdom. The play tells the story of the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. Through the character of Becket, Eliot examines the conflict between the church and the state, as well as the struggle between individual conscience and the demands of society. The play also raises questions about the nature of martyrdom and the role of the church in society. Overall, “Murder in the Cathedral” is a powerful and thought-provoking work that continues to resonate with audiences today.
The Influences on T.S. Eliot
T.S. Eliot was a highly influential poet and playwright, and his work was shaped by a variety of influences. One of the most significant of these was his interest in religion and spirituality, which is evident in many of his works, including “Murder in the Cathedral.” Eliot was deeply influenced by the Christian tradition, and his writing often reflects his interest in the themes of sin, redemption, and salvation. He was also influenced by the works of other writers, including Dante, Shakespeare, and the French symbolists. These influences can be seen in the complex symbolism and imagery that is present in much of Eliot’s work, as well as in his use of language and structure. Overall, the influences on T.S. Eliot were many and varied, and they helped to shape his unique and powerful voice as a writer.
The Political Implications
The political implications of “Murder in the Cathedral” are significant. The play is set in the 12th century, during a time of great political upheaval in England. The conflict between King Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket is at the center of the play, and it highlights the tension between the church and the state. Eliot uses the play to explore the relationship between power and morality, and to question the role of the church in politics. The play also raises questions about the nature of martyrdom and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of persecution. Overall, “Murder in the Cathedral” is a powerful commentary on the intersection of religion and politics, and it continues to be relevant today.
The Tragedy of Thomas Becket
The Tragedy of Thomas Becket is a story that has captivated audiences for centuries. Thomas Becket was a close friend and advisor to King Henry II of England, but their relationship soured when Becket became the Archbishop of Canterbury. Becket’s newfound power and influence put him at odds with the king, and their disagreements eventually led to Becket’s murder in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. The tragedy of Becket’s death has been immortalized in literature, including T.S. Eliot’s play “Murder in the Cathedral.” Eliot’s work explores the themes of martyrdom, sacrifice, and the struggle between church and state. Through his portrayal of Becket’s final moments, Eliot invites us to reflect on the nature of power, loyalty, and the human condition. The Tragedy of Thomas Becket is a timeless tale that continues to resonate with audiences today.
The Contrast with Shakespearean Tragedy
While “Murder in the Cathedral” is undoubtedly a tragedy, it differs significantly from the tragedies of William Shakespeare. Shakespearean tragedies often involve a protagonist who possesses a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall, such as Macbeth’s ambition or Othello’s jealousy. In contrast, the tragedy of “Murder in the Cathedral” is not caused by any inherent flaw in the character of Thomas Becket. Instead, it is the result of a clash between his unwavering commitment to his principles and the political machinations of those around him. Additionally, while Shakespearean tragedies often end with the death of the protagonist, “Murder in the Cathedral” concludes with the triumph of Becket’s spirit and the eventual canonization of his martyrdom. Overall, while both Shakespearean tragedies and “Murder in the Cathedral” deal with themes of power, betrayal, and death, they approach these themes in very different ways.
The Comparison with Other Modernist Works
When compared to other modernist works, “Murder in the Cathedral” stands out for its unique blend of religious themes and modernist techniques. While other modernist works often focus on the individual’s struggle with society or the self, “Murder in the Cathedral” explores the struggle between the individual and the divine. This is evident in the play’s exploration of the themes of martyrdom, sacrifice, and redemption. Additionally, the play’s use of chorus and symbolism is reminiscent of ancient Greek drama, adding to its timeless quality. Overall, “Murder in the Cathedral” is a standout work in the modernist canon, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of religion and modernity.
The Relevance to Contemporary Society
The relevance of T.S. Eliot’s “Murder in the Cathedral” to contemporary society lies in its exploration of the tension between individual conscience and societal expectations. The play’s central conflict between Archbishop Thomas Becket and King Henry II highlights the struggle between personal beliefs and the pressure to conform to authority. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s world, where individuals are constantly faced with the challenge of balancing their own values with the demands of society. The play also raises important questions about the role of religion in society and the relationship between church and state. These issues continue to be debated and contested in contemporary society, making “Murder in the Cathedral” a thought-provoking and relevant work for modern audiences.