Strauss was a pioneer in the investigation of the “historical Jesus”. Strauss affirmed that Jesus was a rea person but denied his divinity or any of the miracles that he was purported to have done. Many of Strauss’ contemporaries were not impressed by his works, J.F. Smith commented that Strauss had a purely analytical approach without philosophical depth or historical sympathy. Some claim that Strauss’ popularity stemmed from his clear and captivating style as much as the logical force of his arguments.