This course will investigate the Gospels of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and aporcryphal Christian Gospels (Gospel of Thomas, Gospel of Peter, Dialogue of the Savior). The development of these Gospels and their traditions will be discussed as well as the history of the so-called "Quest for the Historical Jesus" from the eighteenth century to the present. The course will also offer guidance to learn scholarly methods for the interpretation of this literature. Assignments will emphasize the critical investigation of specific passages from these Gospels. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: a minimum of seven short papers (2 pages) and a self-scheduled final examination. Open to all classes without prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 30 (expected: 20).

Hour: KOESTER