This paper analyzes the intellectual dispute between Christian apologists and pagan rhetors over popular violence against martyrs in the years of Julian. The views of the divided elites are derived from the accounts from the Eastern cities, where the pagan mob, under the pretext of punishing those who damaged the temples, destroyed physical remains to prevent new cults of relics. The authors’ debate provides a window into Julian’s enigmatic position on violence, a dilemma which is also reflected in his writings.

Keywords: Julian, mob violence, martyrdom, Christian and pagan authors.