The Death of the Gods: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Death of the Gods: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the complex relationships and conflicts among key figures in the Roman Empire during a time of religious transition. Central to the narrative is Caesar Constantius, an emperor whose rise to power is marked by political assassination. His cousin, Julian Flavius, embodies a struggle between faiths; initially a Christian monk, he becomes disillusioned and embraces paganism. Julian’s character is further complicated by personal loss, particularly the departure of his wife for a religious life, which fuels his rejection of Christianity as he attempts to restore pagan traditions in Rome. Gallus Flavius, Julian's effeminate younger brother, briefly shares power before his assassination, adding to the theme of political fragility. The character Arsinoë, who initially represents pagan values, subsequently converts to Christianity, creating tension with Julian, who desires both her love and loyalty. Publius Porphyrius serves as a bridge to Julian’s pagan experiences, introducing him to the cultural heritage of ancient Greece. The narrative ultimately reflects the broader themes of faith, power, and identity within a turbulent historical context.
The Death of the Gods: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Dmitry Merezhkovsky
First published: Smert Bogov: Yulian Otstupnik, 1896 (English translation, 1901)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Rome
Plot: Historical
Time: Fourth century
Caesar Constantius (SEE-zur kon-STAN-shee-uhs), emperor of Rome, who rose to power through assassination.
Julian Flavius (JEW-lee-uhn FLAY-vee-uhs), cousin of Constantius, a young man learned in the pagan philosophies. At twenty, he travels to Asia Minor as a Christian monk, and he is secretly won over to paganism. Later, he fights a successful campaign as a general in Gaul and is hailed as emperor. He becomes embittered when his wife leaves him to become a nun, and he denounces Christianity and reinstates paganism in the Roman Empire. He is ridiculed for his scholarly studies and undertakes a campaign against Persia, believing a victory will win respect for him and for paganism. He is mortally wounded in battle and dies saying that Christ has defeated him.
Gallus Flavius (GA-luhs), Julian's younger brother, an effeminate young man. He is made co-regent with Constantius for a brief time before he is assassinated.
Arsinoë (ahr-SIH-noh-ee), a young woman who delights in paganism. She tells Julian that he must believe in himself rather than in any gods. Later, she disappoints Julian by becoming a Christian. Although he wants to make her his empress, she refuses Julian's offer of love and marriage. Just before Julian dies, Arsinoë visits him and tries unsuccessfully to win him back to Christianity.
Publius Porphyrius (PEW-blee-uhs pohr-FIH-ree-uhs), who takes Julian to a wrestling arena to watch the ancient Greek games. There he sees Arsinoë, a young pagan, for the first time.