ANTH 3101 - Museum Studies

This course explores the history, development, and role of museums in society. Museums are investigated as repositories for history, science, and anthropology collections as part of nineteenth century European-based empires. Museums as manifestations of the “nation” in the nineteenth and twentieth century political movements are considered. Contemporary ideas about museums and the communities they serve are explored. The work of collecting, preserving, and exhibiting cultures, art, and the natural world will be scrutinized. Students will critically analyze marketing materials and scholarly treatises to compare and contrast the place of museums in society in a global context during the past 200 years. Museum visits are included in the course, as are hands-on exercises and readings designed to give students insight into the profession of working in a museum. Prerequisites: ANTH 1102, or HIST 1111, or HIST 1112, or permission of the instructor.

Hours:
3