How captured Romans were supposed to behave

The 15 British sailors captured by Iran have been criticized for their conduct while in Iran. The story of Scaevola shows how ancient Romans were supposed to behave when captured by enemies.

Scaevola, a young Roman nobleman, tried to assassinate an enemy foreign king. He failed and was captured. His captors threatened him with torture. In response to this threat Scaevola voluntarily put his right hand in a fire and kept it there until it was consumed by the flames. Impressed with Scaevola's strength and courage, the foreign king freed him.