# Scene XII explained — Plays

> Chapter companion for Plays by Roswitha of Gandersheim.

## What happens

Gallicanus returns from battle and recounts his conversion experience to Constantine, describing how he was defeated, then aided by a heavenly figure after vowing to the Creator. He explains that he has been baptized and now wishes to renounce marriage to Constance to devote himself to God. Constantine reveals that Constance and Gallicanus's own daughters have also chosen virginity, and they rejoice together.

## Themes in this chapter

### Christian vs. Pagan Conflict

Gallicanus contrasts his failed pagan sacrifices with the heavenly aid received after vowing to the Christian God, highlighting the triumph of Christianity over paganism.

### Divine Intervention and Miracles

A young man carrying a cross appears to Gallicanus in battle, leading him to victory and conversion, exemplifying miraculous divine aid.

### Chastity and Virginity

Constance and Gallicanus's daughters choose to keep their vow of virginity, and Gallicanus himself renounces marriage to serve God.

## Character check-ins

### Gallicanus

Returns from battle, recounts his conversion and baptism, and renounces marriage to Constance.

### Constantine

Welcomes Gallicanus, questions him about his change of faith, and reveals that his daughter and Gallicanus's daughters have chosen virginity.

### Helena

Mentioned as arriving with Constance and the other women, weeping for joy.

### John

Referenced as one of Gallicanus's faithful companions who advised him to make a vow to the Creator.

### Paul

Referenced as one of Gallicanus's faithful companions who advised him to make a vow to the Creator.

### Bradan

King of the enemy who surrendered to Gallicanus after being overcome by terror.

## Key lines

> It was then that the tribunes, disregarding my orders, began to surrender. To the enemy? To the enemy.

The tribunes ignored Gallicanus's commands and started surrendering to the opposing forces.

_Gallicanus describes the moment his own men capitulated during the battle._

> A young man of immense stature appeared before me carrying a cross on his shoulder. He bade me follow him sword in hand.

A gigantic youth with a cross appeared and instructed Gallicanus to follow him into combat.

_Gallicanus recounts the divine vision that turned the tide of battle._

> I am ready to renounce even your daughter, whom I love more than anything in the world. I wish to abstain from marriage that I may devote myself wholly to the service of the Virgin’s Son.

Gallicanus declares he will give up his betrothal to Constance in order to live a celibate life dedicated to Christ.

_Gallicanus expresses his commitment to chastity and religious devotion._

## Links

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