Download PDF Becket Folio Theatre French Edition Jean Anouilh Gallimard Folio edition 9782070358038 Books

Product details Series Folio Theatre (Book 124) Mass Market Paperback Publisher French and European Publications Inc; Gallimard folio edition (March 1, 2010) Language French ISBN-10 2070358038

Becket Folio Theatre French Edition Jean Anouilh Gallimard Folio edition 9782070358038 Books Reviews

• Historically inaccurate as it may be, this timeless work is at once entertaining and heart wrenching. I have seen negative reviews of this work elsewhere that seem to miss the point. This book is not about a man changing completely overnight; it is about a man who finds an outlet for the honor that was always there. Becket has always done his job perfectly and meticulously, according to him for the sake of "aesthetics". A lover of only life, he has always been empty, a result of his honor being in conflict with his desire to live well and having to compromise his honor in order to achieve that; his birthright being a lifetime of servitude and poverty otherwise.
  
  When his best friend (who happens to be the King) asks him to assume the mantle of Archbishop Of Canterbury he literally begs him not to force the appointment upon the church, foreshadowing the truth Becket already knows deep within That his honor will no longer be in conflict with his duty should he be appointed to lead the Church Of England (which at that time was still in communion with the Pope). Eventually Becket must chose between his role as Chancellor Of England and Archbishop Of Canterbury, opting for the latter. The choice between the two titles, in itself, was not hard. What was difficult was coming to the realization that he could not serve in both capacities.
  
  Aside from missing the truth that Becket did not "change" in the story, but that he actually was freed to be what he always was (Becket himself actually points out in the story that the "change" is far too easy, almost enjoyable), it is my feeling that those who do not enjoy the book are also missing the entertainment value. Despite it's deadly poignant nature, the story does not take itself too seriously. The author has admitted it's historical inaccuracy, and the book is rife with comic relief; subtle and otherwise. The story is meant to be simple, potent, and entertaining on every level. It succeeds on every count.
  
  Just be aware This is actually the play manuscript published in book form. If you are expecting the format of your typical novel, you are in for a bit of an adjustment. Yet, having made the adjustment, it is actually a bit of a refreshing change. Well worth a read!