Museums and the Act of Witnessing

Museums and the Act of Witnessing explores how representations of traumatic histories and the legacies of the twentieth century in museums and heritage sites shape political, social, and cultural identities. It demonstrates how the narrative of 'witnessing' has shaped representation of war, genocide, repression, and violence, and argues that witnessing the past is to colonize the future. The book details the character, content, and meanings of representation that focus on the traumatic events of the twentieth century and questions the true purpose of witnessing. It will be of interest to academics and students engaged in the study of museums, history, sociology, conflict, politics, and memory.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Museums and the Act of Witnessing delves into the profound impact of representations of traumatic histories and the legacies of the twentieth century in museums and heritage sites worldwide on political, social, and cultural identities. Through an interdisciplinary analysis of a diverse range of museum exhibitions across the globe, the book showcases how the narrative of 'witnessing' has shaped the portrayal of war, genocide, repression, and violence. It reveals that this form of presentation, rooted in Western origins and nature, inherently colonizes the future by projecting a specific view of the past onto the present.

In depth, the book explores the character, content, and meanings of representations that focus on the traumatic events of the twentieth century, shedding light on how visitors are cast as 'witnesses.' It raises critical questions about the true purpose of witnessing and encourages us to reevaluate our engagement with the past in the present.

Museums and the Act of Witnessing serves as a valuable resource for academics and students engaged in the study of museums, history, sociology, conflict, politics, and memory. It offers insightful perspectives and methodologies that contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between history, memory, and the construction of identities. By examining the ways in which museums shape our perception of the past, this book encourages us to explore new avenues for engaging with the past and shaping a more inclusive and empathetic future.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 154 x 235 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367569518