CRUSADES: Whether or not the crusades were justified? Whether the crusaders actually had noble intentions or not? Whether or not the Muslims or Christians were more advanced cultures?
Ooh, I like the last one. It's almost like Athens v. Sparta, because it would be which is better or more "advanced," practical inventions or philosophical/literary achievements?
I think the crusades are obviously a good option. Another thought that came to mind: perhaps we could debate one of the early church controversies? I seem to recall covering quite a few when we were studying early church history (though I'm sure I'm confusing some material with Mrs. G's church history class too).
I don't think our debate subject should be centered on the Crusades. After all, we just read a whole non-biased book on the subject. I think the Muslim vs. Christian civilization question could work well, but what early church controversies would make for interesting research? Iconoclasm? Rome vs. Constantinople? What about a more strictly political subject like the rise of England or the fall of Constantinople?
I am really interested in doing something on Iconoclasm. It is something we only briefly covered in our first two texts towards the beginning of the year. Also, t is something that is quite controversial even among modern-day Christians, and I think there can be a lot of evidence found for both sides--a good attribute of a debate topic.
Max, did you have anything specific in mind for "the rise of England," or "the fall of Constantinople"?
CRUSADES: Whether or not the crusades were justified? Whether the crusaders actually had noble intentions or not? Whether or not the Muslims or Christians were more advanced cultures?
ReplyDeleteOoh, I like the last one. It's almost like Athens v. Sparta, because it would be which is better or more "advanced," practical inventions or philosophical/literary achievements?
ReplyDeleteI think the crusades are obviously a good option. Another thought that came to mind: perhaps we could debate one of the early church controversies? I seem to recall covering quite a few when we were studying early church history (though I'm sure I'm confusing some material with Mrs. G's church history class too).
ReplyDeleteI don't think our debate subject should be centered on the Crusades. After all, we just read a whole non-biased book on the subject. I think the Muslim vs. Christian civilization question could work well, but what early church controversies would make for interesting research? Iconoclasm? Rome vs. Constantinople?
ReplyDeleteWhat about a more strictly political subject like the rise of England or the fall of Constantinople?
I am really interested in doing something on Iconoclasm. It is something we only briefly covered in our first two texts towards the beginning of the year. Also, t is something that is quite controversial even among modern-day Christians, and I think there can be a lot of evidence found for both sides--a good attribute of a debate topic.
DeleteMax, did you have anything specific in mind for "the rise of England," or "the fall of Constantinople"?
Max did I just note a hint of sarcasm! We could do a debate between the Arian Heresy and current Christianity.
ReplyDelete