The Sign of the Cross 1914

In 64 A.D., Marcus Superbus is Prefect of Rome. When the Emperor Nero decides to renew persecution of the Christians, Marcus opposes him, fearing for the safety of Mercia, the Christian woman whom he loves. Through the machinations of the Empress Poppaea and other women at court, Tigellinus, Nero's agent in the war against the Christians, convinces Nero to have Mercia arrested. Marcus appeals to the emperor for mercy, but is told that she can be saved only by renouncing Christianity. Waiting to enter the arena to be killed, Mercia steadfastly refuses to reject her religion, despite Marcus' pleas. Finally, Marcus is converted by her and they enter the arena to face death together.

Cast:

William Farnum
Marcus Superbus 

Rosina Henley
Mercia, a Christian maid 

Sheridan Block
Nero 

Morgan Thorpe
Favius 

Ethel Grey Terry
Berenice 

Lila Barclay
Poppaea