Murder in the Cathedral T. S. Eliot’s Murder in the Cathedral is a poetic drama that recounts the martyrdom of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. Set during Becket’s final days, the play explores the spiritual conflict between religious conscience and temporal power. Having defied King Henry II’s interference in Church affairs, Becket returns from exile aware that his resistance may cost him his life. Tempted by visions of pride, power, and false martyrdom, he ultimately accepts death as divine will rather than political defiance. The Chorus—echoing Greek tragedy—represents the ordinary people, torn between fear and faith as events unfold. When the King’s knights murder Becket, their posthumous defense of “duty” contrasts with Becket’s spiritual victory. Written in verse, the play combines ritual, theology, and poetic intensity, portraying martyrdom as both tragedy and triumph. Eliot’s work examines faith, destiny, and moral integrity in the face of worldly corruption and authority.
