Here is a link to the Thesis Generator that Alex mentioned in class.
Also, here is a link to a guide to writing short papers that I wrote a number of years ago. It is a bit goofy, but it may help to focus your writing a bit.
One more thought about these short papers. Keep in mind, even if you are doing a more creative "conversation in a cafe" approach, that you need three specific things in these papers.
A clear statement at the beginning and end of your paper about your argument. This helps with the readability of your short paper. (Always think about ease of reading!)
An articulation of the assigned and suggested readings from the class. This doesn't have to be lengthy, but it should show that you have listened well to the opinions of others. In other words, have you read enough so that you understand some of the key issues surrounding this doctrine? If not, perhaps you should read another article, or go and talk with friends about the subject.
Some kind of statement about your own understanding of the doctrine. Hopefully your reading will help you land somewhere. You may be stuck between opinions but that is OK as long as you articulate that.
Remember, clear writing covers a multitude of sins. Read back through your paper. Are you convinced? Or do you just sound confused? Ease of reading and flow of argument in your writing are transferable skills! They are not just useful in theology. ;)
First off, here are the links to my lecture on Biblical Personhood and the power points from Wednesday's Class. There are some great quotes from Bruggemann that we didn't really get to in class, check it out! “
A few of you have asked about the choral piece that I played at the end of class on Wednesday. It is "Spem in Alium" by Thomas Tallis (c. 1570). Here is what Jeremy Begbie has to say about this piece: "Here forty different voices weave their way in and through each other…. Despite the sonic profusion, it never sounds ‘jammed’ or crowed. There is multiplicity without dissipation, togetherness without mutual overwhelming, each voice being enabled to become more fully itself: ‘As though being ourselves we’re more capacious.’" (Jeremy Begbie, "Through Music: Sound Mix," in Beholding the Glory, InterVarsity Press, 2000, 152.) Thanks, Jeremy. Great description!
Here is what they are singing: I have never put my hope in another except in you, God of Israel, who will be angry yet become gracious. And all the sins of man in suffering you forgive. Lord God, creator of heaven and earth: look on our humility.
Here are a few videos of this piece from youtube.
Here is one that shows part of the score, with the Tallis Scholars singing:
Here is one with a slide show with images from all over Britain:
Here is one with the King Singers. The group sings each of the eight choir parts (40 voices in all). The video shows a bit of the complexity and breadth of this wonderful work:
There seems to be quite a bit of anxiety over the God/Self Maps, so I thought that I would offer a small bit of advice.
Remember, this is just an exploration. As you are all working on this project, begin with your own questions and even your doubts. Perhaps you will only have questions and no answers. That is OK. This is your project. Don't try to please me. This about your thoughts regarding God and yourself. There are no right answers. The only wrong path would be to not bring yourself to the project.
