Plays · Chapter
Plays explained
This chapter presents a collection of dramatic works by Roswitha, focusing on the lives and martyrdoms of saints, the power of faith, and the triumph of Christian virtue over pagan persecution and personal temptation.
What happens
This chapter presents a collection of dramatic works by Roswitha, focusing on the lives and martyrdoms of saints, the power of faith, and the triumph of Christian virtue over pagan persecution and personal temptation.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Drusiana’s desperate plea for death to preserve her chastity and prevent another’s sin represents the emotiona…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Martyrdom and Suffering
The plays depict the suffering and martyrdom of Christian saints, emphasizing their faith and endurance.
- Redemption and Repentance
The story of Thais highlights the possibility of redemption through penance and repentance.
Characters to notice
- Roswitha
Author of the plays collected in this chapter.
- Gallicanus
Central figure in the play 'Gallicanus,' a general who converts to Christianity.
- Paphnutius
Main character in the play 'Paphnutius,' a monk who confronts and converts the harlot Thais.
- Thais
A harlot who is converted and does penance in the play 'Paphnutius.'
- Sapientia
Mother of Faith, Hope, and Charity, whose daughters are martyred in the play 'Sapientia.'
Key passages
“Plays”
The chapter contains dramatic works.
The chapter title indicates a collection of plays.
