Note 32 — Chapter X · Ancient Punishments.
Reading edition
Matthew, XVI., 24; Mark, VIII., 14; Luke, IX., 23.
All authorities agree that of all deaths crucifixion was the most abhorrent, not only because of the pain resulting, but also because of the shame of such a death. Cicero, in his Oration against Varres, declared that it was impossible to find a fit word to describe such an outrage as the crucifixion of a Roman citizen, yet the gentle Galilean suffered this horrible death, with perfect resignation.