Comparative Mythology, Folklore & History of Religion: From Ancient Near East to Early Christianity

This lecture provides a foundational understanding of the Hebrew Bible's structure, essential for contextualizing subsequent discussions on ancient Israelite religion and its broader mythological landscape.

Building on the textual foundation, this lecture situates Israelite religion within the Ancient Near East, critically comparing its monotheistic claims with surrounding pagan polytheism, thus establishing a comparative framework.

Transitioning from monotheistic contexts, this lecture introduces the complex evolution of a Celtic goddess into a Christian saint, illustrating the syncretic processes central to comparative mythology and religious history.

Following the exploration of syncretism, this lecture delves into the multifaceted interpretations of another prominent Celtic mythological figure, further demonstrating the dynamic and often contradictory nature of religious narratives.

This lecture shifts focus to the Christianization of the Roman Empire, examining the political and theological disputes that shaped early Christian identity and its interaction with existing pagan traditions.

Finally, this lecture explores the diverse expressions of ancient Jewish identity within the Graeco-Roman world, providing crucial context for understanding the foundational developments of early Christianity amidst a pluralistic religious environment.