Who was Paul the Apostle? What can be known about him, his letters, and his beliefs? Paul has been perceived as a controversial figure by many people from the time of his conversion from Judaism to Christianity. For some, he has been considered a pseudo-apostle, an apostate, a chauvinist, or even a misogynist, while for others he has been considered the founder of Gentile Christianity, a brilliant theologian, an advocate for women and slaves, and a Christian saint. What can be made of this person who is so greatly despised and so greatly loved? This course will introduce students to the life, letters, and beliefs of Paul the Apostle. Emphasis will be given to: 1) Paul's biography as reconstructed from his letters and from a critical use of Acts; 2) the social and theological themes of Paul's letters through the respective cultural, religious, and political contexts of each writing; and 3) Paul's beliefs regarding a variety of controversial issues situated within their first century C.E. setting. Students will honestly and critically engage Paul's own writings and will become familiar with positions in Pauline scholarship by reading prominent authors in the field.