How To Write A Thomistic Essay

How to Write a Thomistic Essay: A Guide to Mastering Aquinas

Writing a Thomistic essay requires a deep understanding of Thomas Aquinas's philosophy, his methodology, and his key concepts. This guide will walk you through the process, providing tips and strategies to help you craft a compelling and insightful essay.

Understanding the Thomistic Framework

Before diving into the writing process, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental principles of Thomistic thought. Aquinas's philosophy is deeply rooted in Aristotelian metaphysics and infused with Christian theology. Key aspects to consider include:

1. Natural Theology vs. Revealed Theology:

Aquinas distinguishes between knowledge gained through reason (natural theology) and knowledge revealed through divine grace (revealed theology). Your essay should clearly delineate between these two sources of knowledge, acknowledging their interplay and potential areas of overlap or divergence.

2. The Five Ways:

Aquinas's "Five Ways" are his famous arguments for the existence of God. Understanding these arguments is fundamental to any Thomistic essay. Consider how they inform your specific topic and how they relate to other aspects of Aquinas's philosophy.

3. The Nature of Being:

Aquinas's metaphysics centers on the concept of "being" (esse). He explores the nature of existence, essence, and act, providing a framework for understanding the world and God. Familiarize yourself with these concepts to build a strong foundation for your argument.

4. Virtue Ethics:

Aquinas's moral philosophy emphasizes virtue ethics, focusing on the development of good character traits. Consider how virtue, vice, and the pursuit of the good inform your topic.

Structuring Your Thomistic Essay

A well-structured essay is crucial for clarity and persuasiveness. Here's a suggested structure:

1. Introduction:

• Clearly state your thesis: What specific aspect of Aquinas's philosophy will you be addressing?
• Provide context: Briefly introduce Aquinas and his relevant works.
• Outline your argument: Briefly mention the key points you'll be making.

2. Body Paragraphs:

• Develop your argument systematically: Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your thesis, providing evidence and analysis.
• Engage with primary sources: Quote and analyze relevant passages from Aquinas's writings. This is crucial for a truly Thomistic essay.
• Use clear and concise language: Avoid jargon and ambiguity. Explain complex concepts in a way that is accessible to your reader.
• Address potential counterarguments: Acknowledge and refute opposing viewpoints.

3. Conclusion:

• Restate your thesis in a new and insightful way: Summarize your main findings.
• Offer concluding thoughts: What are the broader implications of your analysis? What new questions does it raise?

Writing Tips for a Strong Thomistic Essay:

• Read widely: Familiarize yourself with secondary literature on Aquinas and his philosophy.
• Analyze carefully: Don't just summarize; critically analyze Aquinas's arguments and their implications.
• Write clearly and concisely: A well-written essay is essential for conveying your ideas effectively.
• Proofread meticulously: Errors in grammar and spelling can detract from the overall quality of your essay.

By following these guidelines and immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Aquinas's thought, you can write a compelling and insightful Thomistic essay that demonstrates a profound understanding of his philosophy. Remember to always cite your sources appropriately. Good luck!