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Questions and Answers
What is the main concern of the Chorus regarding Becket's return to Canterbury?
What role do the four tempters play in Becket's return to Canterbury?
What significant decision does Becket ultimately make regarding his fate?
How long had Becket been away from Canterbury before his return?
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Which group of characters welcomes Becket back to Canterbury?
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Study Notes
Chorus and Becket's Absence
- The play begins with the Chorus, a group of Canterbury women, lamenting the Archbishop's seven-year absence.
- Becket's absence stems from conflicts with King Henry II, involving religious and political issues.
- While the Chorus misses Becket, they fear his return due to the potential for renewed conflicts and his possible death.
Becket's Return and Welcome
- A herald announces Becket's arrival from France, causing dismay among the Chorus who anticipate his death as a consequence.
- Three priests who previously served Becket welcome him back to Canterbury.
- Becket's entry into the scene is followed by the appearance of four tempters, individuals seeking to influence his perspective on power.
Temptation and Martyrdom
- The four tempters present Becket with various proposals for how to balance his religious authority with political power.
- Becket rejects all temptations believing their visions for his future are not aligned with God's plan.
- Becket embraces martyrdom as his fate, choosing to sacrifice his life in devotion to God.
Key Themes
- The play explores the complex relationship between religious and political authority and the impact of ambition and power.
- It examines themes of faith, sacrifice, and the challenges of navigating conflicting ideologies.
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Description
This quiz explores the themes of absence, temptation, and martyrdom in the context of Becket's return to Canterbury. It examines the conflicts between religious authority and political power as presented through the Chorus and the four tempters. Test your understanding of these critical elements and their implications in the play.
