The Fall of the Pagans and the Origins of Medieval Christianity, Prof. Kenneth W. Harl, (24 Lectures / 30 Minutes Per Lecture / 4x DVD - The Great Courses)
 
In this 24-lecture series, Professor Kenneth W. Harl explores one of history’s most pivotal transformations: the transition of the Roman Empire from a diverse pagan society to a Christian state. The course avoids a simplistic "overnight conversion" narrative, instead meticulously tracing the intellectual, social, and political friction that occurred between the 2nd and 6th centuries. Harl highlights how traditional Roman polytheism—deeply rooted in civic duty and ancient rituals—was gradually supplanted by a monotheistic faith that redefined the relationship between the individual, the state, and the divine.

Professor Harl, known for his high-energy and authoritative lecturing style, brings the Greeks, Romans, and early Church Fathers to life by focusing on the high-stakes debates that shaped Western civilization. He examines key turning points, such as the reign of Constantine the Great, the theological battles of the Council of Nicaea, and the persistent "pagan" traditions that survived well into the Middle Ages. By the end of the course, students gain a sophisticated understanding of how the collapse of classical antiquity provided the necessary soil for the rise of Medieval Europe and the institutional power of the Catholic Church.
 
At Book Archaeology, we value the preservation and discovery of intellectual treasures, making this collectible DVD an essential resource for any history enthusiast eager to unlock the complexities of the Early Christian Church.