This is an early example of a "saint's play," a genre that was to
become even more popular during the late Middle Ages. Hrotsvitha, a
Saxon nun or cannoness (circa 935-1001), was an important link between
the devotional medieval plays and the classical tradition. The author
is obviously familiar with Terence, and the classical comedic
tradition, but uses her knowledge and ability in the service of her
faith. She is considered by many to be the first author of dramas after
the classical age.
This play takes place during the reign (and persecutions) of
Diocletian. When the three sisters Agape (Love), Chlonia (Purity) and
Irena (Peace) are asked to sacrifice to the old Roman gods so that they
can have a highborn marriage, they refuse. They are given to the
governor Dulcitius, who imprisons them in the scullery. He goes in to
ravish them, and instead winds up making love to the pots and pans, and
comes out black and filthy. His own soldiers desert him as a devil, and
he is cast out and mocked for his appearance, which he can't see
himself. Diocletian then gives the girls to Sisinnius, who throws the
older girls into the fire for their stubbornness. They die, but without
a mark on their bodies or their clothes. He pities the youngest girl,
but she refuses likewise. He orders her sent to the lowest of brothels,
but his soldiers return, saying two beautifully clothed and noble young
men came and said he'd given orders to take her to the top of the
mountain. Sisinnius went himself to get her, but couldn't reach her,
even by the paths, or otherwise. He orders her shot with an arrow and
she mocks him for being overcome by a mere girl, and forced to use the
force of arms to defeat her. She is also martyred.