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Questions and Answers
What is the primary concern of the Chorus regarding Becket's return to Canterbury?
What is the primary concern of the Chorus regarding Becket's return to Canterbury?
- They are happy to see him after so long.
- They hope he will bring political stability to the region.
- They fear it will reignite old conflicts leading to his demise. (correct)
- They believe he has forgotten them during his absence.
How do the priests react to Becket's return compared to the Chorus?
How do the priests react to Becket's return compared to the Chorus?
- They are indifferent to his return.
- They urge him to leave Canterbury again.
- They express joy and welcome him back warmly. (correct)
- They fear him as much as the Chorus does.
What ultimately influences Becket's decision regarding the temptations presented to him?
What ultimately influences Becket's decision regarding the temptations presented to him?
- The advice of the Chorus.
- His loyalty to the King.
- His desire for political power.
- His commitment to God and higher spiritual truths. (correct)
What do the ‘tempters’ try to convince Becket to do?
What do the ‘tempters’ try to convince Becket to do?
What emotional state do the Chorus members exhibit upon hearing of Becket's return?
What emotional state do the Chorus members exhibit upon hearing of Becket's return?
Study Notes
Murder in the Cathedral: Part 1
- Focus: The Chorus, a group of Canterbury women, express their anxieties and fears about the potential return of Archbishop Thomas Becket.
- Context: Becket has been absent from Canterbury for seven years due to conflicts with King Henry II.
- Chorus's Concerns: They fear Becket's return will rekindle old conflicts, leading to his death and leaving them without their spiritual leader.
- Priests' Perspective: Three former priests welcome Becket back with enthusiasm.
- Becket's Arrival: A herald announces Becket's return to Canterbury.
- Tempters: Becket is confronted by four "tempters," who offer different perspectives on how to balance his religious and political authority.
- Becket's Rejection: Becket dismisses these temptations, believing none align with his spiritual destiny.
- Martyrdom: Becket accepts martyrdom as his fate, rejecting earthly power and embracing a life devoted to God.
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Description
Explore the themes and characters of Part 1 of 'Murder in the Cathedral'. The Chorus expresses fears about Archbishop Thomas Becket's return, while priests welcome him back. Delve into Becket's rejection of temptations and his acceptance of martyrdom.