During the period in which The Bronze Bow is set, Romans and Jews are not coexisting peacefully and it seems impossible that they would achieve peace together in the near future. Elizabeth George Speare emphasizes the many negative features of Roman rule in Galilee and suggests that the Jewish resistance was unlikely to succeed in removing the Roman overlords. Not only are the Romans harsh masters over the subjugated Jews; they show contempt for the religious and civil aspects of the faith. Speare explores the diversity of perspectives that different Jewish groups and individuals pursue in their efforts to restore autonomy.

Although the various groups have very strong differences of opinion, Speare conveys that relatively few Jews benefited from Roman rule or acquiesced to Roman oppression. The severity of the differences between Jewish perspectives served to impede effective collective action that would lead to gaining their freedom. Traditionalists such as Hezron steadfastly maintain faith in the Law of Moses. In contrast, violent resisters such as the Zealots claim the need to break from the past.

Throughout the book, Daniel’s single-minded hatred of Romans drives his pursuit of personal revenge more than his desire to create a more just society. This hatred is fueled by Rosh but changes to a more moderate view that considers radical reform that is not based in violence. Simon helps Daniel to encounter Jesus’s teachings, which advocate a peaceful way of life and the effort to love other humans—even one’s enemies. Speare implies that the religious system of the time was inadequate and that rallying behind a Messiah with a strong message was a necessary development in that era.