The play ‘Murder in the Cathedral’ opens with the unexpected arrival of Becket after how may years of exile in France? [British Drama (2018-19) Assignment 2]

 In T.S. Eliot's play "Murder in the Cathedral," the character of Thomas Becket returns to England after seven years of voluntary exile in France. The play opens with Becket arriving at Canterbury Cathedral on December 2, 1170, much to the surprise of his former colleagues and enemies.

Becket's return to England sets in motion the events that lead to his eventual martyrdom. The play is based on the historical events surrounding Becket's murder at the hands of four knights of King Henry II in Canterbury Cathedral on December 29, 1170.

The play explores themes of martyrdom, the conflict between church and state, and the nature of power and authority. It is considered a masterpiece of 20th century drama and is still performed and studied today.