Prudentius

Prudentius was a young monk who accompanied Telemachus on a thousand-mile journey from their wilderness community to Rome. Unlike his more contemplative companion, Prudentius eagerly imagined the city's lights, food, gifts, and warm homes during the Christmas season. On the road, he helped share bread with Alfrick, a Gothic warrior and Christian deacon, and witnessed Telemachus turn away armed robbers without violence. Rome's Colosseum then confronted him with Christians cheering gladiators as they killed one another. Prudentius initially believed two monks could do nothing against soldiers and a furious crowd. He watched Telemachus enter the arena anyway, choosing faithful action over safe withdrawal. Prudentius's presence gives the journey a companion's perspective, moving from curiosity about Rome toward the sobering cost of opposing public cruelty.