The lectures will serve as a part of the curriculum for RBS's course HT 511 Early Church and will provide an overview of the theological and literary history of the Patristics from the end of the Apostolic era to the rise and spead of Islam. The course aims to equip the student with a basic understanding of the key figures, events, and issues in the history of the Patristic era, as well as to offer the student an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the Patristic leaders and writers.