Germanicus of Smyrna
A young 2nd-century Christian, he was thrown to the beasts in the arena during the reign of Marcus Aurelius and urged the animals to devour him to achieve martyrdom more quickly.
- Antiquity
- Feast day February 13
- † 168
- Martyr
Germanicus was a young man from Smyrna who was martyred around 167-168 AD, shortly before Saint Polycarp. During the public games, he was thrown to wild beasts. While others feared the ordeal, Germanicus eagerly threw himself towards the beasts, encouraging other Christians not to renounce their faith and to seek martyrdom with courage. His brave example is reported in the 'Martyrdom of Saint Polycarp', where he is described as having 'sharpened' other faithful by his determination.