Genesis is one of the most original and influential books ever written. As well as being the first book of the Hebrew Bible, Genesis has had a profound impact on both Christianity and Islam. Its depiction of the Creator as an entity who learns by trial and error is both original and bold. Rarely has humanity's struggle to comprehend the mystery of existence been more effectively and provocatively explored. Genesis is also a rattling good narrative. It contains some of the most memorable scenes in western literature. At its heart lies the struggle of the Jewish people to establish their identity, of all humans to understand God, and of God to understand all humans.
I've taught Homer's "Odyssey" at Colgate University for over thirty years. I've published 14 books, the latest being "How To Survive in Classical Greece." I've recorded 5 courses for The Great Courses and videos for TED-Ed. It has been my passion throughout my teaching career to make the ancient world come alive.
