Plays · Theme
Christian vs. Pagan Conflict
How Plays develops Christian vs. Pagan Conflict.
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.
Where it surfaces
- 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.
- Scene II
Julian's command to force Gallicanus to sacrifice to the gods highlights the ongoing religious struggle between paganism and Christianity.
- Scene IV
Julian's hostility toward John and Paul underscores the ongoing conflict between Christianity and paganism.
- Scene V
John and Paul directly oppose Julian's paganism, refusing to serve him and praising Christian emperors.
- Scene VI
Julian's command to force John and Paul to sacrifice to Jupiter exemplifies the direct clash between pagan authority and Christian faith.
- Scene VII
The direct confrontation between Julian's pagan command and the Christians' unwavering faith.
- Scene I
Diocletian champions pagan worship while the sisters defend Christianity, leading to direct confrontation.
- Scene IX
The emperor's anger stems from the maidens' blasphemy against pagan gods, highlighting the religious clash.
- Scene I
Antiochus reports that a Christian woman is causing religious discord by converting Roman wives away from the traditional pagan religion.
