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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why might the public react this way?

2. What is the best way to define the style in which T.S. Eliot wrote the Interlude?

3. Looking at the clues in the Interlude, which Tempter proved to be the most successful?

4. Who was NOT mentioned in Beckett's sermon?

5. What does Beckett see himself as, in reference to his definitions of martyrdom?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Choose two of the characters from the play excluding Becket. Compare and contrast the following aspects of the characters:

Part 1) Their social standing.

Part 2) Their political views.

Part 3) Their religious beliefs.

Now describe how these traits affect their opinion of Becket and his actions in the play. How are their opinions different? How are they similar?

Essay Topic 2

The Chorus often references their inability to act. At one point during their speech regarding the "death-bringers", they even go so far as to use words like "mastered," "subdued" and "violated." How does the chorus tie the idea of helplessness to the idea of being violated?

1) Do you believe Eliot illustrates a feminist or anti-feminist perspective in the characterization of the Chorus and their words?

2) Cite examples from the Chorus' speeches. What maintains their subordination throughout the play?

3) How do these women reflect our feelings as an audience?

Essay Topic 3

The Chorus seems to believe in a "Void." They believe that God's judgment will lead Becket to this Void rather than a peaceful afterlife. The Fourth Knights insists that Becket commits suicide. Using examples from the text, argue whether or not you believe that Becket's actions, which he knew would lead to murder, were justified and moral. Consider: if Becket coordinated his own death, could he still bring about the order he believes martyrdom will bring about? By the end of the play, is he still doing "the right deed for the wrong reason?"

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 367 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample