Plays · Question
How does Plays develop the theme of Christian vs. Pagan Conflict?
Answer
Plays by Roswitha of Gandersheim develops Christian vs. Pagan Conflict across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
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.
Evidence in the book
- Prefaces of Roswitha
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.
- Scene V
Artemia acknowledges her former idolatry and credits divine light for her faith, while Constance hopes for Gallicanus's conversion from paganism.
- Scene VII
Gallicanus insists on pagan sacrifices at the Capitol, while John and Paul, as Christians, withdraw rather than participate, highlighting the religious divide.
- Scene IX
Gallicanus's initial reliance on pagan gods (Jupiter, Apollo) contrasts with the Christian promise of victory through faith.
- Scene X
Gallicanus explicitly rejects pagan gods and temples, choosing instead to honor the Christian God, highlighting the tension between the two belief systems.
- Scene XI
Gallicanus's act of going to church before seeing the emperor illustrates the shift from pagan Roman customs to Christian priorities.
- Scene XII
Gallicanus contrasts his failed pagan sacrifices with the heavenly aid received after vowing to the Christian God, highlighting the triumph of Christianity over paganism.
- Scene I
Julian's decree to strip Christians of their possessions embodies the pagan backlash against Christian influence in the Empire.
