The Apocalypse: Controversies and Meaning in Western History

By: Craig R. Koester, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Craig R. Koester

What are we to make of the book of Revelation, with all its dramatic events and rich symbolism? Get an authoritative guide to this extraordinary work in 24 thought-provoking and enlightening lectures, divided into three parts: the historical and intellectual background of the Apocalypse; a close reading of John's text, focusing on the meaning of its images; and the wide-ranging impact of the book on Christian and Western history.

Throughout these lectures, Professor Koester focuses on what John actually wrote in the Apocalypse, what his situation tells us about his meaning, how that meaning can be applied to our own lives, and how contemporary biblical scholars relate Revelation to the modern world. He also introduces major figures in history who have been powerfully drawn to the Apocalypse, among them St. Augustine (who saw it as timeless and symbolic rather than literal), Martin Luther (who decoded it to reach a remarkable theological insight), and Sojourner Truth (who was inspired by the book to work tirelessly for women's rights and the abolition of slavery).

Describing the Apocalypse as a roller coaster that hurtles you down into the abyss amid scenes of monsters and plagues, only to send you flying upward toward views of pure light, Professor Koester stresses that if you are reading Revelation and want to despair, then you've stopped reading too soon. You need to turn the page and look to the next chapter, because there will be a wonderful message of hope waiting for you. And as you learn with this lecture series, you'll find that the Apocalypse you've heard about pales beside the real one.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2011 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2011 The Great Courses

Good job giving context but structure was not optimal

I think I wanted a better sense of the overall picture of the book in its historical context first before all the minutiae of each chapter is discussed. Otherwise, pretty decent.

Great course.

This course has brought me closer to understanding the book of Revelation. This course and others on theology as well as history have been excelkant.

Educational

I now know the evolution of Christianity's view of the way the world ends (or, according to the book, changes.) While I don't believe it, I appreciate it as a story that many believe.

Outstanding Scholarship

What did you love best about The Apocalypse: Controversies and Meaning in Western History?

Looking at Revelation from a literary perspective brought new understanding for me.

Have you listened to any of Professor Craig R. Koester’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I wish the professor had more teachings available. I thoroughly appreciated his academic approach, presenting his understanding as well as other perspectives.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

The book of Revelation is not about the future, rather a classic writing that speaks to people of any time and culture.

Any additional comments?

I couldn't help thinking that the U.S. today is very much like the imperialistic Roman Empire at the time Revelation was written. We are also a culture that embraces power and violence; which caused me to wonder if my country, the United States of America, isn't the "Whore of Babylon."

Not what I expected

He could have skipped the first half but the second half was worth the wait. I learned somethings about various religious movements and music. It was not a verse by verse explanation.