# What Christian vs. Pagan Conflict means in Plays

> The central dramatic tension in plays like Gallicanus, Dulcitius, and Sapientia is the struggle between early Christianity and Roman paganism, often culminating in martyrdom and the triumph of faith over imperial persecution.

## Explanation

The central dramatic tension in plays like Gallicanus, Dulcitius, and Sapientia is the struggle between early Christianity and Roman paganism, often culminating in martyrdom and the triumph of faith over imperial persecution.

The prefaces explicitly frame Roswitha's work as a Christian alternative to the pagan plays of Terence, highlighting the tension between Christian and classical traditions.

Artemia acknowledges her former idolatry and credits divine light for her faith, while Constance hopes for Gallicanus's conversion from paganism.

Gallicanus insists on pagan sacrifices at the Capitol, while John and Paul, as Christians, withdraw rather than participate, highlighting the religious divide.

Gallicanus's initial reliance on pagan gods (Jupiter, Apollo) contrasts with the Christian promise of victory through faith.

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