Becket

On Page 4, Becket tells the King that he performs the functions of his valet because he likes helping him. Do you think this statement is sincere, or are Becket’s actions self-serving? Cite passages from the text to support your view.

Becket saves his sister and the peasant’s daughter from rape yet gives his girlfriend Gwendolen up to the King. What might be the reason for this inconsistency?

What role do women play in Becket? Are the characterizations of the female characters adequate, in your opinion? Why or why not?

Becket tells Gwendolen that “beauty is one of the few things which don’t shake one’s faith in God” (26). What does he mean by this? Do you think Becket loves Gwendolen? Cite examples from the text.

In your opinion, when precisely does Becket undergo his change in moral character, and what causes this change?

How does the peace summit affect the relationship between the King and Becket? Does it accomplish its intended goal? Why or why not?

In Act IV, the King hopes to anger Becket by denying him the right of primacy —the right to crown the new regent. Does the King really think Becket cares about this now, or does he have another motivation?

In your view, does Becket’s death accomplish anything, whether for himself, the King, or the English people?