Murder in the Cathedral

Murder in the Cathedral is a 1935 play by T. S. Eliot that depicts the martyrdom of Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, in his cathedral church by the knights of Henry II in 1170. Its theme and form are rooted in religion, ritual purgation, and renewal, bringing poetry triumphantly back to the English stage. This anniversary edition marks 850 years since Becket's murder and 85 years since Eliot's play was first performed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2020
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Murder in the Cathedral, penned in 1935 for the Canterbury Festival, stands as one of T.S. Eliot's earliest dramatic triumphs, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest plays of the 20th century. The play revolves around the martyrdom of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, depicting the events that led to his assassination by the knights of Henry II in 1170 within his cathedral church. Drawing inspiration from Greek drama, the play explores themes of religion, ritual purification, and renewal, marking a significant return to the earliest sources of theatrical expression. This commemorative edition commemorates the 850th anniversary of Becket's tragic murder, as well as the 85th anniversary of Eliot's play's initial performance.

The play's central theme revolves around the conflict between religious devotion and political power. Becket, a devoted Catholic priest, is appointed Archbishop of Canterbury by King Henry II, but his loyalty to the Church and his refusal to compromise with the king's demands lead to a clash of ideologies. The knights, loyal to the king, conspire to assassinate Becket, viewing him as a threat to their power and influence.

The play's structure is characterized by its dramatic intensity and religious symbolism. Eliot employs powerful language and imagery to convey the emotional weight of the events, using religious metaphors and allusions to deepen the themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the clash between faith and secular authority. The play's setting, the cathedral church, adds to the sense of sacredness and tension, as the characters navigate the treacherous waters of political intrigue and religious conflict.

One of the play's most notable features is its exploration of the nature of martyrdom and the role of the individual in the face of oppressive authority. Becket, despite his flaws and weaknesses, is portrayed as a hero who stands up for his beliefs and values, even at the cost of his own life. His willingness to sacrifice himself for his faith inspires others to follow in his footsteps, and his memory continues to be revered as a symbol of religious freedom and resistance.

In addition to its dramatic and religious themes, Murder in the Cathedral also serves as a reflection on the power of language and the importance of storytelling. Eliot's use of language is masterful, with his poetic and evocative prose creating a vivid and immersive experience for the audience. The play's dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the characters' complex personalities and the political stakes at play.

Over the years, Murder in the Cathedral has been performed countless times on stages around the world, and it has continued to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Its themes of religious conflict, political power, and individual sacrifice remain relevant in contemporary society, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right and just, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Murder in the Cathedral is a masterpiece of dramatic literature that continues to inspire and captivate audiences today. Its exploration of religious devotion, political power, and the nature of martyrdom remains as relevant as ever, and it serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the human spirit. Whether viewed as a historical drama or a contemporary reflection, this play remains a testament to the enduring legacy of T.S. Eliot and his contribution to the world of theater.

Weight: 102g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571362790
Edition number: Main