The Robe

A Roman military tribune and the son of a senator, Marcellus is proud, dutiful, and haunted by his role in the crucifixion. His arc moves from imperial loyalty to a personal awakening as guilt and love push him toward faith and redemption. He becomes a focal point where power, guilt, and spiritual transformation intersect.

Diana is Marcellus's childhood love and a ward of Emperor Tiberius, pledged in marriage to Caligula. She is resilient, loyal, and willing to challenge political schemes to protect the man she loves. Her steadfast devotion anchors the romance and moral choices at the center of the story.

A defiant Greek slave who becomes Marcellus's personal servant. He evolves from defiance to faith, choosing to follow Jesus and accompany Marcellus on his journey. Demetrius embodies transformation through spiritual awakening and moral struggle.

The ruthless emperor who uses power to manipulate, punish, and destabilize. His vengeful actions pull Marcellus away from Jerusalem and into a dangerous game of political scheming. Caligula’s tyranny frames the ethical conflicts at the heart of the tale.

Governor of Judea who orders arrests and becomes entangled in the trial and execution of Jesus. His role highlights the political complexities of maintaining order under Roman rule. Pilate embodies the collision of empire, religion, and responsibility.

A kind-hearted weaver in Cana who offers shelter and counsel. Justus provides moral clarity and acts as a bridge between the ordinary lives of Cana’s inhabitants and the extraordinary events surrounding Jesus and Marcellus. His wisdom helps steer the protagonists toward mercy.

An apostle who becomes a harbinger of the Christian mission. Peter invites Marcellus and Demetrius to join in spreading their faith, and his healing presence links the personal struggle to a broader spiritual movement.

A Centurion who accompanies Pilate and participates in the crackdown on perceived Christian threat. His role adds tension to the pursuit of truth within the political machinery of Rome.

Gallio's slave who is secretly a Christian. He guides Diana to Marcellus and becomes a crucial messenger of faith in the story's climax. Marcipor embodies quiet courage and hidden devotion.

Hailed as the Messiah when he enters Jerusalem; his arrest and crucifixion catalyze Marcellus's inner transformation. The narrative centers on the impact of his life and death on those around him.