T.S. Eliot's harrowing saga of St. Thomas Becket's brutal martyrdom in 11th-century England offers a glimpse into the turbulent age in which Becket lived, an era defined by the climactic struggle between Church and State.

Becket's internal struggles are examined in-depth as well. Will he choose self-preservation or self-denial? Self-aggrandizement or self-abandonment to the will of God?

Using this third study guide in the Catholic Great Books Series, guide your student through this masterpiece with ease and insight. Study guide offers discussion of modern poetic drama and includes an appendix of the Latin liturgical hymns alluded to in the play.

Generously illustrated and annotated, this self-directing study guide is ideal for use by high-school students and can be easily adapted for use by study groups or in classrooms. The following features facilitate the student's progress:

• Introduction to the author and historical period
• Explanation of literary elements
• Discussion questions and exercises
• Teacher notes and suggested lesson plan
• Optional comprehensive test
• Answer key and enrichment suggestions