Execution of Jerome of Prague
Jerome of Prague stands bound at the stake, moments before being burned for heresy, surrounded by clergy and onlookers in the town square.
Setting
Konstanz Cathedral Square, a large open space surrounded by medieval buildings, with the imposing Konstanz Cathedral looming in the background. The square is filled with a mix of clergy, townsfolk, and officials gathered around a central wooden stake surrounded by bundles of dry wood.
Characters
Jerome of Prague
primary
A gaunt man in his late 30s, with sunken cheeks and intense dark eyes that burn with conviction. His once dark hair is streaked with premature gray, matted from imprisonment. His hands are bound behind the stake, but his posture remains unnaturally straight despite the ropes biting into his flesh.
Bishop
primary
A tall, imposing figure in his late 50s with a stern, weathered face, deep-set eyes, and a prominent nose. His posture exudes authority, with broad shoulders and a slightly hunched back from years of study and prayer. His hands are adorned with a large episcopal ring, and his fingers are long and bony.
Executioner
secondary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s, with a visible physical strength honed by years of performing grim duties. His face is obscured by a dark hood, revealing only the lower half of his jaw, which is set in a firm, emotionless line. His hands are large and calloused, moving with practiced efficiency.
Town Crier
secondary
A middle-aged man with a robust build, weathered face, and piercing eyes that command attention. His short, graying beard and broad shoulders give him an authoritative presence.
Weeping Woman
background
A middle-aged woman with a thin, careworn face and sunken eyes. Her hair is partially covered by a simple linen wimple, with strands of graying hair escaping at the temples. Her hands are rough from work, clutching a wooden rosary.
Guard
background
A burly soldier in his late thirties, with a weathered face and a thick beard. His build is muscular, built from years of military service, and his stance is imposing. His eyes are sharp, constantly scanning the crowd for any signs of disturbance.
Dialog
Bishop
Jerome of Prague, by the authority vested in us by Holy Mother Church and the sacred Council of Konstanz, you are hereby condemned as a heretic. May God have mercy on your soul.
Town Crier
Hear ye! Jerome of Prague stands accused of spreading the heretical doctrines of Jan Hus, denying the authority of the Church, and leading souls astray from the true faith!
Jerome of Prague
When did Christ ever command His followers to burn men for seeking truth? Where in Scripture is this righteousness found? You cloak your fear in piety!
Bishop
Silence, heretic! Your words are as ashes before the wind. The Church is the pillar of truth, and your defiance only seals your damnation.
Jerome of Prague
Then let the flames bear witness! The truth does not burn with me—it will rise from these ashes!
Town Crier
Let all present mark this day! The justice of the Church is fulfilled!
Jerome of Prague
Ad ignem tantum liber sum—in the fire, at last, I am free.