Research the historical figure Thomas Becket and his reasons for his conflict with King Henry II. To what extent does Eliot's depiction of these events align with historical records?

The British poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, also wrote a verse play on Thomas Becket's life, titled Becket (1884). Read Tennyson's portrayal of Becket's martyrdom and compare it with Eliot's version. For instance, how does each poet depict Becket's choice to stay in the cathedral when threatened by the knights?

Renaissance artists often depicted saints in symbolic environments. Find some paintings of Becket and analyze how the artists have used color, light, and form to represent their subject. What aspects of Becket's character do they aim to highlight?

Eliot admired the morality play Everyman (1500) for its versification, particularly the author's use of sound and meter to create specific effects. Compare the verse style of Everyman to Eliot's work. Are there any similarities in rhythm or sound patterns in both pieces? "Why would Eliot choose to use these particular patterns?"

In Part Two of Eliot's play, several musical cues are referenced, such as "a Dies Irae is sung in Latin by a choir in the distance." Consult a music encyclopedia to understand what a Dies Irae is and how it, along with other songs mentioned by Eliot, is used in the Catholic Mass. Then, explain why Eliot might incorporate these elements into his play. How do specific hymns enhance certain dramatic moments?