Murder in the Cathedral characters

Also known as Archbishop of Canterbury

Appears from the start

The exiled archbishop returning to Canterbury after seven years of conflict with King Henry II. He expects that his dispute with royal power may end in death and tries to distinguish faithful acceptance of martyrdom from pride, ambition, or a wish to control his own legacy.

Appears from the start

A collective voice for ordinary women of Canterbury. They anticipate Becket's return with fear because they sense that it will bring violence into lives built around endurance and obscurity. Their responses give the political and religious conflict its human cost.

Appears from the start

Clergy of Canterbury Cathedral who await Becket, question the meaning of his return, and try to shield him when armed men arrive. Their practical desire to preserve his life conflicts with his refusal to turn the cathedral into a fortress.

Appears from the start

A herald who announces that Becket has returned to England and reports the uneasy circumstances surrounding his reconciliation with the king. His news confirms both the public excitement and the unresolved danger.

Appears from the start

Four figures who successively offer Becket escape from his present danger: a return to private pleasure, renewed political power beside the king, alliance with rebellious nobles, and finally martyrdom pursued for personal glory. Their arguments expose the motives Becket must reject before he can meet his fate freely.

Appears from the start

The English king whose former friendship with Becket has become a struggle over the independence and jurisdiction of the Church. He never appears onstage, but his anger and authority drive the archbishop's exile, return, and mortal danger.

First appears in chapter 3

Reginald Fitz Urse, William de Traci, Hugh de Morville, and Richard Brito, royal retainers who confront Becket with accusations of treason. They first demand his submission and departure; when he refuses, they return armed to carry out the killing for which the play is named.