Murder in the Cathedral : Book Review

Murder in the Cathedral, written by the renowned poet T.S. Eliot, is a gripping play that delves into the events leading up to the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket. Set in the 12th century, the play explores themes of faith, power, and the conflict between the church and the state.

The story unfolds with Becket's return to Canterbury Cathedral after a lengthy exile. As he prepares for his inevitable clash with King Henry II, tensions escalate among the clergy and the citizens of Canterbury. Eliot's mastery of storytelling creates a palpable sense of suspense and impending doom throughout the play.

A notable aspect of Murder in the Cathedral is the profound exploration of Becket's internal struggle. Eliot skillfully captures the archbishop's conflicting emotions as he wrestles with his duty to God and the awareness that his actions will result in his own demise. This inner conflict adds depth and complexity to Becket's character, making him a truly compelling protagonist.

Eliot's use of poetic language and metaphors in the play is highly remarkable. His vivid and evocative descriptions breathe life into the setting and characters, immersing readers in the world of the play. The lyrical quality of the writing adds an additional layer of beauty to the overall reading experience.

Murder in the Cathedral is not only a historical drama but also a thought-provoking exploration of faith and martyrdom. Through Becket's journey, Eliot raises profound philosophical questions about sacrifice, the individual's role in society, and the power dynamics between the church and the state. These themes resonate deeply, making the play both timeless and relevant.

What are readers saying?

"Murder in the Cathedral" by T.S. Eliot has garnered a largely positive reception from readers. The play, first staged in 1935, delves into the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. Here is a summary of the readers' feedback:

1) Many reviewers admired Eliot's poetic and lyrical writing style. They found his use of language to be exceptionally rich and powerful, which created a vivid and captivating portrayal of the play's events. Readers appreciated the depth and complexity of the dialogue, as well as Eliot's ability to convey the characters' emotions and motivations effectively.

2) Several reviews emphasized the play's exploration of themes such as power, martyrdom, and the individual's struggle against societal norms. Readers found these themes to be thought-provoking and appreciated the moral and philosophical questions that the story raised. They noted that Eliot's work transcends a mere historical account, delving into profound issues of faith, morality, and the human condition.

3) Many readers enjoyed the development of characters in "Murder in the Cathedral." They found the portrayal of Thomas Becket particularly compelling, with reviewers noting his transformation from a political figure to a spiritual martyr. Eliot's depiction of the protagonist's internal conflict resonated with readers and prompted them to reflect on their own beliefs and values.

4) Some reviews mentioned the play's intense and dramatic atmosphere. Readers appreciated the gradual buildup of tension throughout the story, culminating in the gripping assassination scene. Eliot's skill in creating a palpable sense of foreboding and suspense was commended by several reviewers.

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