The Classical World, Robin Lane Fox

The Classical World by Robin Lane Fox, esp chapters 48, 52, and 53 deals with and gives a brief background of Christianity and Roman Rule, and the roots of Christianity. It also shows an insight into what Pliny the Younger was like and his background, and by doing this it contrasts some Roman beliefs in comparison to some early Christian beliefs.

Fox, R.L., The Classical World: An Epic History of Greece and Rome (London, 2006)

How much did voluntary martyrdom by some Christians play a part in the continuation of the Christian persecutions?

From general reading I got the impression Christians were attacked and persecuted when pagans actually reported them to the authorities, because of their different beliefs and unwillingness to participate in the accepted norms and practices of the populace. However, in a piece by G.E.M. de ste. Croix, ‘Why were the early Christians persecuted’ in Past and Present (1963), an interesting point is raised that Christians actually voluntarily admitted to being a Christian in order to be punished and become a martyr.