Through biography, history, theology, and courtroom drama, this book recounts the quintessential conflict between an American theologian and the Vatican. The Curran case framed an era, from 1965 to 1990, and left behind unresolved questions about authority and freedom in the Catholic Church today. Using the fast-paced narrative of a journalist, the author covers issues such as the life and times of Charles Curran, moral theology, Catholic higher education, academic freedom, and finally the unprecedented trial that brought cardinals and theologians to the witness stand.