Saints Perpetua and Felicity were early Christian martyrs who died in Carthage (modern-day Tunisia) around 203 AD during the persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus. Their story is one of the most famous martyrdom accounts from early Christianity and is recorded in The Passion of Perpetua and Felicity, which includes Perpetua’s own prison diary—one of the earliest known writings by a Christian woman.
Historical Context
In 203 AD, the Roman Empire was actively suppressing Christianity, viewing it as a threat to traditional Roman religious practices. Christians who refused to offer sacrifices to the emperor or Roman gods were often imprisoned, tortured, and executed.
The Story of Perpetua and Felicity
Perpetua was a young, noblewoman from a wealthy Roman family, and Felicity was her slave. Both were catechumens (new converts preparing for baptism) when they were arrested along with other Christians. Perpetua’s father, a pagan, pleaded with her to renounce her faith, but she refused. While in prison, she had a series of visions that strengthened her resolve.
Felicity, who was pregnant at the time of their imprisonment, gave birth just before their execution. According to the account, she feared she would not be executed with her companions, as Roman law forbade the execution of pregnant women, but she gave birth early and was allowed to die alongside them.
On the day of their martyrdom, Perpetua, Felicity, and their companions were led into the amphitheater. They were attacked by wild beasts and eventually executed by the sword. Perpetua, even in death, is said to have guided the hesitant hand of the executioner to her throat, demonstrating her unwavering faith.
Legacy
The Passion of Perpetua and Felicity remains a powerful testimony to early Christian courage. Their feast day is celebrated on March 7, and they are venerated as patron saints of mothers, expectant mothers, and martyrs. Their story has inspired generations of Christians and is one of the few martyrdom accounts that include a first-person narrative.