Why would someone give their life for their beliefs?
Rome persecuted Jews and Christians, preferring Polytheism. But over time this perspective changed. Increasing hostilities between believers led to violent executions and martyrdoms. Pragmatically, Romans opted for a policy of religious toleration, but this path was unsuccessful. Jews were expelled from cities, Christian's crucified in parts of the empire. When Constantine adopted Christianity as the official faith, it gave Christians an opportunity at revenge. This inquiry examines the lives of Perpetua and Felicity, two Christian martyrs and Hypatia, a pagan scholar butchered in the street by a Christian mob. This download includes a modified version of the lesson plan designed for middle school learners. Modification of the lesson plan was fulfilled by practicing middle school teachers.