Watch The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity

The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity is a fascinating exploration of the diverse religious beliefs and practices that existed throughout the ancient world prior to the rise of Christianity. Presented by Hans-Friedrich Mueller, a professor of Classics at Union College, this Great Courses Signature Collection series delves into the mythologies, rituals, and philosophies of various pagan cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Celts, and more.

Throughout the course of 24 lectures, viewers are taken on a journey through time and across the globe, exploring the rich tapestry of beliefs and practices that shaped the ancient world. From the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete to the far reaches of the Roman Empire, this series examines the gods, goddesses, and supernatural beings that the ancients worshipped, as well as the rituals and ceremonies that they used to connect with these divine forces.

One of the key themes that runs throughout The Pagan World is the pervasive influence of polytheism in ancient civilizations. Unlike the monotheistic religions that dominate much of the world today, polytheistic belief systems allowed for a much wider variety of deities, each with their own stories, personalities, and spheres of influence. Mueller discusses the different ways in which these gods and goddesses were worshipped, from elaborate public ceremonies to private household shrines, and how their worshippers sought to connect with them in their daily lives.

Another important aspect of ancient paganism that this series explores is the deep connection between religion and the natural world. Many ancient cultures saw the earth, sky, and sea as living beings or god-like entities, and their religious practices reflected this belief. Mueller discusses the ways in which environmental factors like geography, climate, and natural disasters often served as the inspiration for myths and religious practices, and how this relationship helped to shape the worldview of the ancients.

In addition to examining the beliefs and practices of individual cultures and civilizations, The Pagan World also highlights the ways in which ancient religions influenced and borrowed from one another. Mueller points out the similarities and differences between the Greek and Roman pantheons, for example, or the ways in which Egyptian religion spread throughout the Mediterranean world. He also discusses the impact that the rise of Christianity had on pagan belief systems, and how many of these religions continued to exist and evolve even as Christianity became the dominant faith in Europe and beyond.

Overall, The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity is a fascinating and comprehensive look at the rich and varied tapestry of pagan beliefs and practices that once dominated the world. With its engaging presenter and thought-provoking content, this series is sure to appeal to anyone with an interest in ancient history, religion, or mythology.

The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between February 28, 2020 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection