Murder in the cathedral.
Name: ____________________________________________ Date______________________ Course: ___________
*Match each character with his/her description, write each name in the box.
Thomas Becket - The Priests- First Tempter - Second Tempter - Third Tempter - Fourth Tempter- The
Chorus
Represent the clergy of the Church of Canterbury who are under the religious
authority of Archbishop Thomas Becket. They begin the play, opposite the Chorus,
in high anticipation of Becket’s return, and are fully ready to welcome him back to
England.
Comprises the poor women of Canterbury, who love Becket and fear for his
safety.
Offers Becket the pleasures of wealth, comfort, and friendship
Wants Becket to use his power as Archbishop to help him form a coalition of
barons and country-lords that will fight to overthrow the “tyrannous jurisdiction”
of King Henry II.
Wants Becket to take up the role of Chancellor again and abandon his fanatical
investment in religion and the Church.
Is former chancellor of England and friend of the king. After his appointment as
archbishop, he advocates for the Church against the king's wishes. When the play
begins, he has returned from exile, expecting retribution
Encourages Becket to pursue martyrdom, arguing that he should shun the
worldly, political order of the king and focus on achieving sainthood.
What is your favorite character and why? Give 3 reasons to support your answer.
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