The tragic events of October 7, 2023, produced global protests from both sides. This has resulted in renewed studies of the origins of continuing antisemitism. Then, as now, religious convictions were not separated from cultural traditions, social conventions, and politics. The gospels are being re-evaluated in attempts to separate literary polemic (negative attacks against opponents) that were used to claim that Jews persecuted and executed the first Christians. Is there any historical evidence for the charge that remains fundamental to Christianity for 2,000 years?

Rebecca Denova, PhD, is senior lecturer emerita in religious studies at the University of Pittsburgh. She regularly teaches courses on the history of early Christianity (her specialty), ancient religions in the Mediterranean world, and several topics related to ancient popular religion and society.

This lecture will meet in person July 14.

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