25: Constantine and the Legalization of Christianity

Objective:
Students will demonstrate their understanding of Constantine’s role in legalizing Christianity and explore the perspectives of people living in the Roman Empire during this major transition.

Materials Needed:

1. Character Role Cards

2. “Talk Show Script Planner” handout

3. Paper or digital tools for notes

4. Optional: name cards, props, or costume accessories for fun

Instructions

Assign Roles:
Students will divide into small groups of 4-5. Assign each group one "Talk Show" panel with the following roles:

• Host/Moderator

• Emperor Constantine

• Roman citizen who supports traditional gods

• Christian believer (before the Edict of Milan)

• Christian leader (after the Edict of Milan)

Plan the Talk Show:
Each group fills out the Talk Show Script Planner, which includes:

• A brief intro by the host

• 2-3 key questions for the guests (Example: “How did Constantine’s vision change the empire?” or “What was life like before Christianity was legal?”)

• Responses for each character that include facts from the lesson

Perform the Talk Show:
Groups take turns presenting their talk shows as a podcast in breakout groups. Each character should speak at least once and provide historical evidence in their responses.

Exit Reflection:
Individually, students complete a quick write:

• “Why was Constantine’s decision to legalize Christianity so important?”

• “Whose point of view helped you understand this turning point the most, and why?”

Host / Moderator

• What major change did Constantine make regarding religion in the Roman Empire?

• Why do you think this turning point is still important today?

• How did people in the empire react to the Edict of Milan?

• Let’s hear what life was like before and after Christianity became legal.

• Why do different groups view Constantine’s decision in different ways?

Emperor Constantine

• What happened during your vision before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge?

• Why did you decide to support Christianity?

• How did you expect the Edict of Milan to help the empire?

• Were you worried about upsetting Roman citizens who still followed the old gods?

• What do you think your greatest legacy will be?

Roman Citizen Who Supports Traditional Gods

• How did you feel when Christianity became legal?

• Do you think this change was good or bad for Rome? Why?

• How has daily life changed for people like you since Constantine's decision?

• What do you miss about the old Roman traditions?

• Do you trust Constantine’s choice, or do you feel left out of the new religious movement?

Christian Believer (Before the Edict of Milan)

• What was life like before Christianity was legal?

• Why did you choose to follow Jesus even though it was dangerous?

• Where did you and other Christians meet in secret?

• How did it feel to face arrest or punishment for your beliefs?

• What are your hopes now that Christianity is finally accepted?

Christian Leader (After the Edict of Milan)

• What changes have you seen since Christianity was legalized?

• How has your role in the community changed?

• Do you think Christianity will spread more now that it is protected by law?

• What do you say to people who still follow Roman gods?

• What are your hopes for the future of the Christian faith in Rome?