Who was Jesus of Nazareth, and how do we know about him? Why did some interpretations of truth — and his message — win out over others? How have these particular ways of thinking influenced western culture, shaping our views of politics, race and ethnicity, sexuality and gender, civil and human rights even now? To answer questions like these, we’ll investigate the earliest gospels, letters, Jewish and Roman sources, prison diaries and martyr accounts — as well as how artists, filmmakers, musicians and theologians interpret them. Regardless of religious background, or none, you will learn a lot, and be able to contribute.