Martyr of the Catacombs: A Tale of Ancient Rome

by James De Mille

What is it like to risk your life for the truth? A young Roman army captain in the third century is confronted by the brutalities endured by Christians. The solidity of their faith in the midst of persecution prompts Marcellus to convert, despite knowing it could cost him his life. Told through fictional characters, Martyr of the Catacombs will help the reader understand the history of the early church and the severe persecution it experienced.

Genres: Christian, History, Classics, Religion, Christianity, School

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1865

About the author

James De Mille was a professor at Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, and an early Canadian popular writer who published numerous works of popular fiction from the late 1860s through the 1870s.

http://www.biographi.ca/en/bio.php?id...

Reviews

[Elizabeth Dragina · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is much death,
And yet, so much life.

Unto him that loved us,
To him that washed us from our sin.

[M.K. Aneal · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Whether told in a world free to hear, or in dark caverns, amidst persecution and terror, God's truth will always be told, and it will always change lives."
This is the most wondrous theme of this short, riveting, and heart-stirring book by an anonymous author back many a year ago. The story here is not only informational, but inspiring.

My brother let me borrow this book, on account that he loved it when he was younger (for my brother, who is not much of a reader, this is quite meaningful), thus I decided I definitely should read this book. I definitely should have. While short, it packs quite a deafeningly meaningful punch. Get ready!

Positively Positives:

#1. I think I have too many positives. Really, I do. The fact is, this book reached out to grab me, shake me up, and make a permanent lodging in my heart--this will be a book never lost to my forgetful memory. This book is altogether positive. I'm positive.
#2. Truth is truth. In today's time, truth is not a favorite companion of our society, but it's still something we need so much more than anything else. This book doesn't paint up metaphors or creative sentence patterns for you to dig through; it simply places the truth in front of plain eyes. Take it or leave it.
#3. A challenge. Your heart will be entranced in the characters here, along with traveling along the hard lives shown in detail in the vibrant chapters, but not only that, but you'll also find yourself asking: "What do I think? Would I do this?" This author, albeit unknown, was a genius few can compare to. He illustrated the terrible horrors of the past, while stirring the mind in the present to ask the same questions in the characters' minds. Prepare to be challenged.
#4. The quotes and verses in these pages are not only brilliant, but totally life changing! Given this book, anyone can know of the Christ of Calvary--the Christ that can set them free!
#5. Not as sad as you'd think, trust me. Death is nothing to fear for the Christian, and whilst this is truth, it's sometimes hard to remember. Here beauty is seen in death, and my mind is blown with the glorious wonder of this all.

NOT Negatives:

#1. You're not gonna believe this. I don't have any real negatives. This book is one of my all time favorites. I'm a hard critic, one who pinpoints even things that aren't technically negatives and notes them, but I'm at a loss here. I'm glad I don't get paid to find negatives, cause I'd be broke in this case... not to say I'm not broke now, however.
Just keep reading.

Quotes For Thought:

"...His everlasting arm was round about His faithful follower, and His spirit inspired him."

"My highest joy is to proclaim Him before men; to die for Him will be my nobelest act, and the martyr's crown my most glorious reward."

"I love Him who first loved me, and gave Himself for me."

PS. I just wish I would've bookmarked all my other favorite lines. I've forgotten where they were.

I read this book expecting sorrow, but what I got was comfort. In this world, that seems to be getting darker and darker, I often feel alone. This book reminded me that I'm not. Although things are hard (they were much harder for the Godly men and women who took shelter in the catacombs) they are not hopeless; in fact, the light can shine even brighter in the shadows. God is good, and will never leave us. The Lord's truth will never be stamped out because He is the One and Only God; Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We don't have much time left--figure out what life really is. It's about following Jesus. Whether it's hard or not. It's worth it.

 2 Timothy 4:8
“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Romans 12:2 - And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.


Jesus loves you! Keep marching on!

~M.K.
www.forjesusfirstlovedme.wordpress.com

[Michael O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Christians during the great persecution under the Roman Emperor Decius. Its protagonist is a successful, young Roman Army officer, Marcellus, chosen by the Emperor for that highest of advancements --- assignment to the Praetorian Guard. The book opens with the gladiator games in the Colosseum. In the gladiator games, we see the inhumanity, the bloodlust, and degeneracy of a Roman citizenry --- having been stripped of their freedoms long ago from the days of the Republic ----now indolent and every bit as barbaric as, if not more than, the Goth hordes on the other side of the imperial frontier. As savagery reaches a climax, the greatest gladiator, Macer, refuses the mob's signal to finally finish his opponent, revealing his faith in Jesus Christ ---- thereby infuriating them even more. Macer declares his faith in Jesus Christ, and, to the amazement of all, allows his defeated opponent to slay him.

Thus begins the story, and, seeing this, young Marcellus is intrigued by such devotion to a long gone, obscure Jewish teacher. Assigned by the Emperor to wipe them out, in his effort to gather intelligence on them, Marcellus forsakes all to join them --- becoming a fugitive and outlaw for his Christian faith. The persecution and savagery grow worse. And, ultimately, Marcellus is forced to make a final, fateful choice --- to stand for his new beliefs and die a horrible death -- or recant and be rewarded with all the generosity that the Imperium can offer.

Most moving was reading the trial of a 13-year old Christian, Pollio. [While reading it, I was listening to a soundtrack from "Game of Thrones", which just coincidentally came to the piece, "Light of the Seven" --- also played during a trial scene in that series. It really added to the effect!] The youth's courage and resolve through this, and subsequently through being torn asunder by a tiger in the stadium for the crowd's amusement are unforgettable.

All in all, this is an outstanding read. Very well-written. It really illustrates why an obscure religious sect was able ultimately to withstand and then overcome the barbarity and ruthlessness of one of the greatest empires in history -- building a foundation upon with Christianity rests today.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Touching account of the early Christians. They willingly accepted persecution rather than renounce their faith and deny Jesus. The church has it comparatively easy these days and yet we stand by and watch the body get torn apart by a ravenous beast, bit by bit, as long as our comfort is not disturbed. Eye-opening.

[J.D. Sutter · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Powerful Story

A fantastic story! Much sadness, but a beautiful hope woven throughout. The writing is not great; some of the dialogue is pretty bad and the characters are not fully fleshed out, but the story itself and subject matter redeem the book for me. The message of the book is powerful and is what brings me back to this book repeatedly.

[Wayne Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is during the reign of the Roman Emperor Decius (A. D. 249-251). Marcellus is a Roman soldier, born at Gades, Spain, who has served in Africa, Syria, and Britain. Upon his arrival in Rome, he witnesses a spectacle in the Coliseum. A famous gladiator Macer defeats all the animals sent against him, but when he announces that he will not kill a fellow gladiator because he himself is a Christian, Macer is killed instead. Following this, an aged Christian teacher named Alexander and a group of young Christian maidens singing, “Unto Him that loved us, to Him that washed us from our sins in His own blood…,” are brought in to be ripped apart by savage beasts. As Marcellus muses upon what he has seen, his friend Lucullus brings him word from the Emperor as to why he has been brought to Rome. Marcellus is to lead a group of soldiers from the Praetorian Guard down into the catacombs to ferret these Christians out and bring them to punishment.

While on a scouting mission, Marcellus meets several Christians, including a thirteen-year-old boy named Pollio, the lady Cecelia who is Pollio’s mother, and an elderly teacher Honorius. As a result of their influence, Marcellus becomes a Christian. A price is then put on his head, and he must also flee to the catacombs. But then Pollio is arrested. What will happen to him? What will happen to Marcellus when he goes in an attempt to exchange himself for Pollio? And what does Lucullus think about all this? According to the Foreword, an anonymous copy of this book was salvaged from an American sailing vessel commanded by Captain Richard Roberts which had been abandoned at sea after a disastrous hurricane in January, 1876. Sometimes Roberts is listed as the author. Often the book is still reprinted with the attribution “By an Anonymous Christian.” However, it is now known that it was written by James De Mille (1833-1880), a Canadian novelist born in Saint John, New Brunswick, son of the merchant and shipowner, Nathan De Mille. In addition to writing, De Mille also served as Professor of Classics, first at Acadia University, then at Dalhousie University, both in Nova Scotia, Canada.

In my research, I have found dates of both 1858 and 1865 for The Martyr of the Catacombs; perhaps one is the first publication in Canada and the other is the first publication in the United States. This story, drawn from church history, of a young Roman army captain who is converted to Christianity in the third century uses fictional characters to show how the early Christians lived in the catacombs of Rome and to emphasize the severe persecutions which they had to suffer. It is not for the faint of heart, but there is nothing objectionable or overly graphic; and even though the reader encounters much sadness, the end certainly has a ring of triumph in it. Numerous Biblical quotations, especially from the book of Revelation, are found throughout. We did it as a family read aloud, and everyone liked it. There were times when it brought tears to my eyes. It is recommended by Nathaniel Bluedorn in Hand that Rocks the Cradle: 400 Classic Books for Children. The novel is not to be confused with another book having a similar title, Valeria, the Martyr of the Catacombs, by William Henry Withrow (1839-1906). Other works by De Mille include the 1867 historical novel Helena's Household: A Tale of Rome in the First Century, which takes place in the time of Paul and Nero.

[Favio Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Una historia que, a pesar de ser sencilla, sacude hasta lo más profundo del alma. Narraciones que definitivamente alientan nuestra fe, recordando esas terribles persecuciones a la iglesia primitiva. Quienes glorificaban al Señor con sus vidas, los que hicieron suyas las palabras de Pablo: "Porque para mí el vivir es Cristo, y el morir es ganancia.”
<>
El capitulo 5 fue tan precioso. Contemplar el momento justo en donde un alma cae rendida ante el sublime Evangelio, no tiene punto de comparación. "Leeme más de esas palabras de vida, porque mi vida depende de ellas". (Marcelo a Honorio)
“¡VICTORIA!” Sean esas nuestras palabras en el último suspiro.

[Rose on aish · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is short and not made to entertain the readers, but to inform them about the persecutions Christians endured in the Roman Empire hiding in catacombs and facing death with joy.
It tells of a Roman soldier who wants to find the people of the catacombs and know the truth why they can face death with such a peace in the arenas. When he seizes a Christian boy, he demands to be lead to their hiding place, where he finds all his answers. After this he's another person, but one of his friends tries to make him shut up about his new beliefs. His friend realizes that he can't (after he publicly recited the Bible in the arena because he saw the boy who led him to the others being killed), he had to lock him up. The faith and peace with which this soldier faced his death made his friend to become a big help for the persecuted Christians and afterwards even to become one of them.

It encouraged me to look at the present situation and stand up for my faith now, when there's not such a widespread and horrible persecution in my country against my faith.

[MC · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember reading this when I was a kid, and thought I would try it out again. Despite some issues with historical settings, it was still enjoyable and even more poignant than before.

The story takes place a few hundred years after Our Lord's death and resurrection. I'm guessing this is supposed to be the persecution of the four emperors famous for the fact that Constantine's father refused to take part on an overt basis, and famous for the beginnings of the St. Nicholas legends. But that is neither here nor there, just some historical settings.

It is a dark time for the Church in the realms not under the rule of Constantius. The Christians face the most horrific torture since Nero, and possibly worse than that. To avoid slaughter, they flee to the Catacombs, and underground network of tombs and tunnels that exists beneath the city of Rome itself. The emperor is enraged that he can not stamp out this "scourge" that so offends the Roman gods. He wants these Christians caught and either killed or converted NOW.

To fulfill his decree, the military garrison call in a talented young officer named Marcellus to hunt down and sniff out these Christians. Marcellus is reluctant as the Christians don't seem so bad to him from his experiences elsewhere in the Empire, but he is prepared to do his duty. He just wants to investigate and find out for himself who these believers of the Jewish Man really are.

But the most incredible thing happens in his investigations. After he hears them out, he is won over by the Holy Spirit and converted. So begins a journey that will test him and others to their limits.

This was a quick book that was inspiring in it's testimony of how Christians lived and died at the time the book chronicles. Though these characters are all fictional, they represent what real people would have endured at the time. Of course, whether you agree or disagree with all of Marcellus' reasoning is up to you and God. It's still thought-provoking.

Of course, there is some historical inaccuracy. Yes, the games at the Coliseum were used for executions, but not as much as commonly believed. Also, folks who were put to death as a sentence were the (for the most part) ones to die. Others did not because slaves were expensive to buy, feed, train, so on. Of course, some of this might be because historical knowledge has increased since the writing. Either way, despite this inaccuracy, it still presents a somewhat accurate picture of what those who were executed endured.

As an older, more knowledgeable (I hope thoughtful) Christian, this book impacted me.

[Frank Tibbetts · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Roman coliseum was a place where spectators would quench their thirst for blood. Hardened gladiators killed for the entertainment of the great Emperor’s of Rome. Once the crowd was brought to an inextinguishable fire, Christians were brought into the arena to be ripped apart by starving tigers and lions; sometimes they were burned alive at the stake, or drawn and quartered. Never in the history of the world has there been a place where so much innocent blood has been spilled.
Marcellus was the captain of the Roman Praetorians commissioned with the task of killing every Christian inside the catacombs. Understanding that soldiers are supposed to kill soldiers, he can find no fault in the Christians worthy of death, and decides to inquire about their beliefs (whether they be treasonous against Caesar) before he carries out his duty.
This book is very descriptive in not only the history of how the catacombs were made, but also describes in great detail the claustrophobic conditions in which the persecuted lived and worshipped in this massive underground labyrinth among the dead.
After hours of being led through endless passageways by Pollio, a thirteen year old boy, Marcellus meets Honorius, an elderly minister. For days, Marcellus listens to the Gospel of Jesus and realizes that he has been searching for this salvation his entire life; He is saved.
The Emperor becomes enraged and increases the persecution, putting a price on Marcellus’ head.
His faithful friend, Lucillus, is given the commission to carry out the persecution. Lucillus captures Pollio.
Marcellus visits Lucillus and seeks to trade the boys life for his own. But Lucillus cannot do it because of his loyalty and love for Marcellus, and tries to convince him to return to his post but secretly worship The Lord inside his heart. He refuses and returns to the catacombs.
Pollio’s mother dies of despair. At his trial, Pollio stands firm in his belief in The Lord and is sentenced to death. As he is torn to pieces by tigers inside the arena, Marcellus is captured in his grief as he cries out at Pollio’s gruesome murder.
Lucillus tries to let him escape, but Marcellus refuses to run and stands brave-he loves The Lord and wants to be with him.
Readers, this is one of the most heart wrenching stories I have ever read, so I warn you: “You will cry.”

[Josh Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. Written by an anonymous author many, many years ago. I believe that it is likely that these scenes will again be seen around the world as people persecute Christians more and more. Every adult and young person will enjoy this!

This was full of Scripture and challenged my heart!

[Jessika Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Had to read it for school but oddly I liked it.

[Jayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was powerful. I enjoyed it very much.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much when I was younger. It's old in style and story but it always made me cry. I need to read it again someday. *sniffles*

[Kolin Baier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few books capture the raw essence of faith under fire like The Martyr of the Catacombs. Set in the early days of Christian persecution under the Roman Empire, this novel presents a gripping, unfiltered look at what it means to follow Christ when the cost is everything.

The story follows a Roman soldier who, through encounters with persecuted Christians in the underground catacombs, comes face to face with a faith that defies fear, pain, and death itself. The book masterfully illustrates the unwavering devotion of early believers, challenging modern Christians to reflect on the depth of their own faith. Would we stand firm in the face of such suffering? Do we truly live as if Christ is worth more than life itself? These are the questions that linger long after the final page.

What makes The Martyr of the Catacombs so compelling is its simplicity and sincerity. The narrative isn’t bogged down with embellishments—it reads almost like a firsthand account, bringing the reality of persecution to life in a way that history books often fail to do. The courage, love, and steadfastness of these early Christians serve as both an inspiration and a challenge: Are we prepared to follow Christ, no matter the cost?

This is a book every Christian should read. It offers not just a history lesson, but a spiritual wake-up call. In an age where comfort and convenience often dictate faithfulness, The Martyr of the Catacombs reminds us what true devotion looks like. It forces readers to confront their own commitment to Christ and ask: If I were in their shoes, would I stand firm? If the answer is uncertain, then perhaps, like the characters in this book, we need to draw nearer to the One who gives the strength to endure.

[Rogo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirador libro, que te desafía a lo sumo al contemplar la vida de los creyentes en quizás una de las épocas más adversas del cristianismo. La vida en las catacumbas de Roma. La distancia entra la vida actual Cristiana occidental versus como vivían estos hermanos es abismante, el contraste en sus convicciones y determinaciones por Cristo es aterrador.
El martirio era algo cotidiano, el sufrimiento por causa de Nombre de Jesús era glorioso. La gracia abundante y paz sobrenatural dada por Dios a estos hnos es realmente sobrecogedora, y llena de esperanza al creyente contemporáneo. A tomar su cruz, negarse a si mismo, y entregarse de lleno a vivir para gloria de Dios…no importando las consecuencia, aunque todo a nuestro alrededor se vuelque en nuestra contra.

Ro 1:16: "Porque no me avergüenzo del evangelio, porque es poder de Dios para salvación a todo aquel que cree; al judío primeramente, y también al griego."

[Forked Radish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite an inspiring mini saga! But African tigers? Were there ever tigers in Africa? The experts say no, so it must have been so, good to know. A bit off scripturally though, but it's pre Nag Hammadi codices and Dead Sea scrolls discovery. For example when De Mille wrote of "My Father and the holy angels" he was unknowingly referring to the Sun and the Planets. A indisputable fact since the Angels correspond exactly with the planets viz. Gabriel, the messenger God = Mercury; Lucifer = Venus in the evening; The Son of God = Venus in the morning; Michael the marshal God = Mars; Jove = Jupiter; Saturn = Satan.

[Raul · Rating 5 out of 5]

El Mártir de las Catacumbas

Autor: James de Mille.



Resumen:



En tiempos de persecución por parte del emperador Decio a los cristianos, se habré la brecha y oportunidad de un pretor de Roma para descubrir su escondite, pero en lugar de entregarlos a la muerte, conmovido por la compasión, amor y valentía de los cristianos, este decide ser uno de ellos, abandonando su puesto ante Roma por defender a sus hermanos de fe.



⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5



Opinión personal:



Realmente es una historia conmovedora que muestra la sombría frialdad de un emperador contra la bondad y amor de los cristianos, realmente una historia que te sensibiliza.

[Alejandro Ramírez Badillo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Es un libro “muy juvenil”
Lleno de mensajes básicos y muy emotivos
Esa es quizás su principal característica
Apela mucho a los sentimientos y emociones
Eso es lo que puede hacerlo bueno o no tan bueno
No es para todos los gustos
Pero en lo personal dejo el deseo de conocer más la vida en esos tiempos históricos a través de una bibliografía más verídica
Sin embargo, no dejó de pensar que quizás haría falta un tiempo como esos que define el libro para despertar el aletargamiento que la iglesia padece en este momento
Tres estrellas para mi

[John Funnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a way to start the year! A superb little book rich with scripture and excitingly inviting. Read in one sitting.

The horror of early Christian life in Rome, a vivid depiction of those who gave all for truth. Journey into the resistance hidden deep in the underground and marvel at the witness they presented to their oppressors. So powerful their fight transformed Christianity from its humble beginnings to a global force.

May we have but a taste of the Spirit of the early Church! Revive us o Lord!

[Alys Ramirez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a little disappointed in Lucullus. I thought he would've been saved earlier in his life.
For those two years christians were persecuted. Though it was a short time, it was a horrible, scary time for some.
There are people might find that sad, or even bad, but think of the bigger picture. If it weren't for the persecution, Marcellus probably wouldn't have been saved. That's the example they gave. The testimony.

[Filip Sekkelsten · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found the mix of didactive and narrative styles somewhat strange. Besides it doesn’t seem all that historically correct in the depiction of their theology; I see too much of Platon, which (I might be mistaken) hadn’t yet mixed with Christian theology to such an extent. I’m thinking here of the dualism and focus on the eternal soul.
Otherwise, the story is good.

[Autumn Slaght · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exceptional story! Every time I read it, it inspires my faith. Even thought it can be a bit of a tough read in some areas, the story is incredible. Marcellus is a terrific main character who leaves a legacy of inspiration.

[Lillianna Drye · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute gem! Although this small book does follow the fictional story of the Roman Marcelus, it is also greatly interspersed with theology and scripture and inspired by true accounts of Christians martyrs. A challenge to the faith of modern day Western Christianity.

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

slightly challenging to read due to the writing style, but very informative. technically fiction, but reads almost like historical text. last chapter made me cry, i was invested in that side character

[Byron Flores · Rating 4 out of 5]

Es un libro que describe el coraje de los primeros cristianos y nos inspira a pedirle a Dios que nuestro corazón confíe en Él a pesar de todo, incluso la persecución. Le falta un poco de narrativa para mi gusto pero es un buen recurso.

[Naela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when I was a child and it is still fixated in my mind. I loved the details and the hope, the drama and the changes a person could face when decides to follow the truth.

[Isaiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is excellent.

[Wendy Tuell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a Librivox book that was available in audio form on YouTube. Great book.

[Ale Ibarra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un libro excelente, que te pone a reflexionar sobre tu vida en Cristo