Watch The Triumph of Christianity

The Triumph of Christianity is an educational series that delves into the history of the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire. It is presented by Bart D. Ehrman, a renowned professor of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The series is structured into 24 lectures, each approximately 30 minutes long, and covers a wide range of topics related to the origins of Christianity. Some of the topics covered include: the background of the Roman Empire and the religious environment of the time, the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, the formation of the early Christian communities, the writings of the New Testament, and the various theological controversies that emerged during the first few centuries of Christianity.

One of the strengths of this series is that it is historically grounded, always seeking to place the development of Christianity within its broader historical context. Ehrman draws heavily on primary sources, including ancient texts, archaeological discoveries, and written records from the time, to bring to life the complex political, social, and religious forces that contributed to the rise of Christianity.

Throughout the series, Ehrman challenges many common myths and misconceptions about the origins of Christianity. He presents a nuanced and detailed portrait of the earliest Christian communities, showing how they were diverse and often conflicted over matters of theology and practice. For example, Ehrman explores the role played by women in the early church, as well as the various factions that emerged over issues such as the nature of Jesus' divinity or the proper way to interpret the scriptures.

One of the themes that runs throughout the series is the role of power and politics in the rise of Christianity. Ehrman shows how political and economic factors played a crucial role in the spread of the new religion, as well as the eventual adoption of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire. He also explores the ways in which early Christian leaders used political tactics and strategies to promote their message and gain followers.

Despite its focus on history and scholarship, The Triumph of Christianity is also accessible and engaging for a general audience. Ehrman has a lively and enthusiastic teaching style, using a mixture of storytelling, humor, and personal anecdotes to draw the viewer into the material. He also makes effective use of visual aids, including maps, timelines, and images of ancient artifacts and art, to help illustrate his points.

Overall, The Triumph of Christianity is a fascinating and comprehensive exploration of one of the most influential and enduring religions in human history. Through detailed analysis and clear presentation, Ehrman sheds light on the forces that shaped the development of Christianity and shows how it came to have such a profound impact on the world. Whether you are a student of religion, history, or simply interested in learning more about this compelling topic, this series is sure to inform and challenge your understanding of the early Christian movement.

The Triumph of Christianity is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between and on The Great Courses Signature Collection