In Becket, Anouilh presents the history of England under Henry II as if it was France under German occupation. As Henry's long-time political playmate, Thomas's elevation to Archbishop of Canterbury forces him to sacrifice the love of his leader for his newfound love of the church: "If I become archbishop I shall cease to be your friend."
Becket was first produced at the Theatre Montparnasse in 1959.

This new translation is published to tie in with a production of the play opening at London's Theatre Royal, Haymarket.