# Scene VII explained — Plays

> Chapter companion for Plays by Roswitha of Gandersheim.

## What happens

Gallicanus welcomes John and Paul, who have been sent by Constance to serve him. Gallicanus announces that before departing for battle, they must first go to the Capitol to offer sacrifices to the pagan gods. John and Paul withdraw, unable to participate in the pagan rites.

## Themes in this chapter

### Christian vs. Pagan Conflict

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

## Character check-ins

### Gallicanus

Welcomes John and Paul, expresses eagerness for their service, and insists on performing pagan sacrifices before battle.

### John

Arrives with Paul at Gallicanus's command, acknowledges Constance's love for Gallicanus, and withdraws rather than participate in pagan sacrifices.

### Paul

Accompanies John, quotes a proverb about friendship, and agrees to withdraw from the pagan rites.

## Key lines

> We must first go to the Capitol, and visit the temples to propitiate the gods with the customary sacrifices.

We need to go to the Capitol and make the usual offerings to the gods to gain their favor.

_Gallicanus expresses his belief that pagan rituals are necessary for military success._

> Let us withdraw for a time.

Let's step away for now.

_John signals his refusal to participate in the pagan sacrifices, choosing to distance himself from the ritual._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/plays_se/chapters/part-i-scene-vii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/plays_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/plays_se/chapters