Historical & Cultural Context
This 10th-century canoness wrote Gallicanus at Gandersheim Abbey.
Who is Hrosvitha?
Hrosvitha adapted the style of this classical Roman comedic tradition.
What is Roman comedy?
This vow made by Constantia drives the main conflict of the play.
What is a vow of virginity?
This Roman building type becomes a key setting associated with Christianity in the play’s world.
What is a basilica?
This Roman general seeks to marry Constantia.
Who is Gallicanus?
Hrosvitha wrote during this German-led Holy Roman ruling dynasty.
What is the Ottonian dynasty?
Unlike many Roman comedies, Hrosvitha’s plays promote this moral ideal.
What is Christian virtue (or chastity)?
Gallicanus’ conversion symbolizes this spiritual transformation.
What is enlightenment?
Unlike Roman amphitheaters, Hrosvitha’s plays were likely experienced in this intimate indoor setting.
What is a religious hall or convent space?
This Roman emperor is Constantia’s father.
Who is Constantine?
Hrosvitha modeled her plays in response to this Roman playwright known for comedies about love and deception.
Who is Terence?
Instead of staging for public theaters, her plays were likely performed or read in this type of religious community.
What is a convent (or monastery)?
Constantia represents this Christian ideal of spiritual “marriage.”
What is devotion to Christ?
The emperor’s authority would traditionally be symbolized in this grand residence.
What is a palace?
Constantia agrees to marriage on the condition that Gallicanus convert to this faith.
What is Christianity?
The play reflects the rise of this religion as dominant in the Roman Empire.
What is Christianity?
This theatrical element is minimized in Gallicanus compared to Roman stage spectacles.
What is physical farce or spectacle?
Military power in the play contrasts with this form of authority.
What is spiritual authority?
Early Christian worship spaces emphasized this focal architectural feature at the front.
What is the altar?
Gallicanus ultimately chooses this over political ambition.
What is religious devotion (or a life of faith)?
Hrosvitha wrote primarily in this language, common among educated clergy.
What is Latin?
Hrosvitha is often considered the first known female playwright from this broad historical period.
What is the Middle Ages?
The rejection of earthly marriage symbolizes prioritizing this over worldly status.
What is salvation?
The shift from Roman public spectacle spaces to Christian worship spaces reflects this broader cultural transformation.
What is the Christianization of the Roman Empire?
The central dramatic conflict revolves around marriage versus this commitment.
What is chastity?