Roman Soldier Monologue
By Kelly Crull
(c) 2001
Synopsis:
A brief look at how the Roman soldier who beat Jesus before his crucifixion may have behaved.
©Copyright Note: This play is protected under copyright law and performance is strictly prohibited without the express consent of the author. Though production is generally granted royalty free, please contact Kelly Crull for permission to perform this play.
Ishtar, bring him in. I want to pay my respect to the king of the Jews.
[Shifts attention to a large group of soldiers which he commands]
Listen here my fellow soldiers, The Jews want this man dead. [begin dripping with sarcasm] They say he claims to be God. He has come to earth to save his people from the Romans. Today we are doing a favor for our Jewish friends. Of course, because they would never dishonor Caesar.
[Jesus enters ]
Well hello Jesus. I suppose you have nothing to say to me. That's clever. Pilate washed his hands for you. He nearly let you go. It's unfortunate in your case that he fears the Jews. As for myself, I can assure you, I fear no one.
[Keeping eyes on Jesus, energy is rising]
Ishtar, Drusus, take off his shirt. Bind his wrists. And tie him to the post.
Let us show Jesus how honored we are to be in the presence of royalty. Drusus, give him your cloak. We wouldn't want our king without his robe.
A bastard child, you are. I'll admit, you are creative, claiming your virgin mother had sex with the gods. I suppose that's why you keep your mouth shut, isn't it? [with a hateful fascination] You think you're God. Divinity would have nothing to do with a mere man like myself. I'm not even worth talking to. And my weapons, they are useless. [sarcastic urgency] Drusus, fetch this man his crown and scepter. I fear he may split the heavens and rain down fire on my head. Hail, king of the Jews.
Tell me, Jesus of Nazareth, what does it feel like to be God? Do you think the pain will be different for you than for others when pieces of broken bone and lead cut into the flesh of your open back. Will your spilled blood taste like honey on my lips? Look at me, God damn you,* I am not afraid. And I ask you kindly, Get...On...Your...Knees.
* You may choose to substitute "you fool" here, depending on the maturity of the audience.