The City of God · Character

Mucius Scaevola

Roman hero who demonstrated courage by burning his hand to prove his resolve.

minor

Also known as Mucius, Scaevola

First appearance: part i book i

Mucius Scaevola shows up with force in XXIX. The page is where that presence becomes real.

Cited as an example of virtuous Roman ancestors whose virtue is perfected by true piety.

In the storyXXIXOpen this moment free

Mucius Scaevola first appears in 0002 part i book i.

In XXIX: Cited as an example of virtuous Roman ancestors whose virtue is perfected by true piety.

Later, in Of the victory of Sylla, the avenger of the cruelties of Marius: The pontiff slain at the altar of Vesta, his blood nearly extinguishing the sacred fire.

See Mucius Scaevola in XXIX Book page

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Character Web

11 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Diverse Historical and Biblical Figures
Patriarchs and Pagan Figures
Roman Statesmen and Emperors
Pagan Gods of Healing and War

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

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In the story

Mucius Scaevola appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

XXIX
Cited as an example of virtuous Roman ancestors whose virtue is perfected by true piety.
Of the victory of Sylla, the avenger of the cruelties of Marius
The pontiff slain at the altar of Vesta, his blood nearly extinguishing the sacred fire.
A Comparison of the Disasters of the Gothic and Gallic Invasions with Those of the Civil Wars
Mucius Scaevola, a citizen, senator, and pontiff, was killed by the Marian faction while clinging to the altar.
XXXI
Referenced as having sought sanctuary in a temple in vain.
Chapter XX: Concerning Virtue and Faith, Which the Pagans Have Honoured with Temples and Sacred Rites
Cited as an example of fortitude for thrusting his hand into flames.
Concerning the eradication of the love of human praise, because all the glory of the righteous is in God
Mentioned as a Roman hero surpassed by Christian martyrs in true virtue.
Chapter XVIII
Roman who burned his hand to intimidate King Porsenna, demonstrating courage for the republic.

Chapter companion notes

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See Mucius Scaevola in part i book i

See Mucius Scaevola in XXIX