Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 198. Minucius Felix.
After an extensive bibliography, Schaff describes Minucius Felix as a zealous convert, about the time of Tertullian (Schaff 2014, loc. 23200, par. 7). He used classical culture in service to Christianity, becoming the first important Latin author among Christians (Schaff 2014, loc. 23206, par. 8). Minucius Felix is known for a dialogue which serves as a defense of Christianity. Schaff summarizes the arguments, with the pagan being represented by “Caecilius Natalis.” Among the charges lodged against Christians are incest and killing of children (Schaff 2014, loc. 23220, par. 10). The Christian response, in the mouth of “Octavius,” refutes the charges and describes the futility of idolatry (Schaff 2014, loc. 23233, ,par. 11). Schaff observes that the character Caecilius is persuaded by the end of the dialogue (Schaff 2014, loc. 23239, par. 13).
Schaff views the work to be significant in terms of apologetics, but not as regards doctrine (Schaff 2014, loc. 23239, par. 14). Christianity may be seen as a “true philosophy” but the doctrinal content is not terribly solid or compelling. Schaff does find the Latin usage and form to be pleasant and reminiscent of Cicero (Schaff 2014, loc. 23252, par. 15).
In comparison of Tertullian and Minucius Felix, Schaff concludes that Minucius may have been earlier and depended on Tertullian at times. However, this is not entirely conclusive (Schaff 2014, loc. 23270, par. 17).