Various theologians of the Middle Ages, both in the east and the west, debated t

Various theologians of the Middle Ages, both in the east and the west, debated the role or use of
images in religious worship. Some of these debates are represented by the readings listed below
(posted on Blackboard); these consist of excerpts from texts by Justin Martyr, Tertullian, Minucius
Felix, Clement of Alexandria, Origen, St. Gregory the Great, and others. These texts date from the
2nd through the 9th centuries and represent the main arguments for and against images in the early
medieval period. (As indicated in the syllabus, you will read these texts first in preparation for
writing a reading summary due on Thursday, March 28 and an in-class debate on Tuesday, April
Based on these arguments concerning images, write a 5-6 page essay. Your essay should consist
of two roughly equal parts: (I) a summary of the key positions for and against images and (II) a
discussion of one or two arguments with which you agree most strongly. In the first part of your
paper, do not attempt to summarize every writer’s ideas but strive to group similar arguments
together, demonstrating how one idea leads to another or are connected. In the second part, expand
on the arguments you find most compelling and convincing – Why are you convinced by these
arguments? Conclude by discussing how you think art is or is not useful and/or necessary to the
practice of religion. Be very specific in your argument by using concrete examples to illustrate
your position. Feel free to offer examples from any religious tradition, as well as from your own
personal experience.
Compose your essay carefully with an introduction previewing your hypothesis, good paragraph
structure, logical argumentation, and a title that sums up your viewpoint. Proofread for grammar
and spelling! You must cite your sources in footnotes