Example Outlines

Option 1)  Thesis Statement

I.  Historical Person
    A.  Background: Birth, childhood, death
    B.  Context of life teachings
          1.  Who taught by, major influences
          2.  Against whom was s/he arguing?
    C.  Major works
II.  Theological (or moral) issue
    A.  Historical Context (earlier views)
    B.  Your person's views
    C.  Opponents' views
    D.  Evolution of your thinker's views
III.  Modern Re-interpretations/perspectives
    A.  Ecumenical Dialogue
    B.  Impasse?  Common ground?
IV.  Conclusion
    A.  Wrap up your presentation
    B. Your own personal views

Option 2)  Thesis Statement

I.  Modern Theological/Moral Issue
    A.  Contemporary tensions
II.  Historical Context
     A.  Views throughout history
           1.  Early church
           2.  Medieval church
           3.  Roman Catholic before Vatican II
           4.   Reformation views
III.  Current Views
     A.  Christian churches
     B.  Jewish etc.
     C.  Secular etc.
     D.  Pros and cons
     E.  Moral/ethical perspectives and bases
     F.  Legal perspectives
IV.  Conclusion
     A.  Wrap up your presentation
     B.  Your own personal views