Becket's Sermon and Conflict with Henry II

What perspective does Becket ask the congregation to consider regarding sainthood?

What title did Henry II appoint Becket to before he became Archbishop?

What motivates Becket's refusal to go into hiding when the knights threaten him?

How do the priests initially respond to the threat posed by the knights?

What does Becket insist should be made public regarding his situation with Henry II?

What fate befalls Becket at the end of the encounter with the knights?

What do the four knights argue after Becket's death?

What is the overarching emotion expressed by the Chorus after Becket's death?

What did Becket say about the doors of the cathedral when the knights arrived?

What conventional belief about sainthood does Becket challenge in his sermon?

Becket's Sermon

Becket challenges conventional understanding of sainthood, highlighting the role of suffering in achieving holiness.
He emphasizes that Jesus' disciples became saints through hardships, not just purity and peace.
His sermon foreshadows his own martyrdom, hinting at his impending death.

Conflict with Henry II

Becket served as Chancellor and Archbishop, but relinquished the former position.
King Henry II accuses Becket of treason due to his abandonment of previous support for royal policies.
The knights, acting as messengers, demand Becket's appearance before Henry II.

Becket's Resistance

Becket insists on public proceedings, demanding clarity for the accusations against him.
He refuses to hide despite the knights' threats of return, embracing his fate.
He emphasizes the church's policy of openness, demanding the priests open the cathedral doors.

Becket's Martyrdom

Becket's decision to face the knights leads to his death.
The Chorus mourns his death, calling for purification.
The priests acknowledge the death as a manifestation of fate, ultimately strengthening the church.

The Knights' Defense

The knights justify their actions, viewing Becket as a traitor.
They emphasize Becket's role in his own death due to his opposition to the king.

Chorus's Evolution

The Chorus initially struggles to grasp the spiritual significance of Becket's martyrdom.
They ultimately accept the death's divine origin, acknowledging the Church's unwavering faith.

Explore the significant events surrounding Thomas Becket, including his challenging sermon on sainthood and his turbulent relationship with King Henry II. Understand Becket's unwavering stand for ecclesiastical independence that ultimately led to his martyrdom. This quiz covers key themes of conflict, resistance, and the profound impact of suffering in achieving holiness.