Stephen Vincent Benet’s Short Story, ‘The Blood of the Martyrs’

This story shows how a meek scientist took a stand for the truth.

Stephen Vincent Benet tells the story of a scientist during World War II who adheres to the truth and suffers for it. Detail of “Martyrdom of St. Thomas,” 1636, by Peter Paul Rubens. Public Domain

Too often powerful people hide the truth behind a façade of opinion and fake facts. They use their power to suppress and kill the truth-tellers who resist the lies.

In his powerful short story, “The Blood of the Martyrs,” Stephen Vincent Benet tells the story of a biochemistry professor during World War II. The Nazis arrest and torture Professor Malzius to extract information; when he continues to hold out, they offer him a deal so good that he complies with the state’s wishes. Yet deep down, Malzius knows that truth cannot be suppressed or denied.

Rehabilitation

Professor Malzius lays on the floor of his cell and stares at the ceiling. He had been arrested by the Nazis and imprisoned because of his association with students who conspired against the Nazis. The Nazis tortured and questioned him to make him reveal the students’ names.