The Cocktail Party
by T.S. Eliot
About_
The Cocktail Party is a verse drama by T.S. Eliot that follows Edward and Lavinia Chamberlayne through the
unraveling and eventual reconciliation of their marriage, guided by the enigmatic psychiatrist Sir Henry
Harcourt-Reilly. This study guide traces the play’s shifting relationships and hidden motives, from a chaotic dinner
party to a startling resolution years later. Students will explore themes of identity, sacrifice, honesty, and the
different paths people choose in searching for meaning. This study guide contains 65 questions across 5 chapter
sections (50 Factual + 15 Critical), 1 Crossword Puzzle (12 clues), and 1 Character Focus Activity.
What’s Included_
This study guide features 5 sets of 10 Factual Questions with an answer key (50 total), 5 sets of 3 Critical Analysis
Questions (15 total), 1 Crossword Puzzle (12 clues), and 1 Character Focus Activity (8 traits + evidence prompt +
critical thinking question).
Target Grades_
Grades 10-12
Teacher Note_
This guide is designed to help students navigate Eliot’s layered dialogue and shifting character motives without
giving away the play’s biggest turns too early. The mix of factual recall and open-ended discussion questions builds
both comprehension and critical thinking, while the answer key and character activity are ready to use, saving you
valuable prep time. Enjoy watching your students uncover the play’s deeper questions about identity and choice!