Organizing the World: Power Dynamics and “Civilization” in the British Museum

Authors

Katherine E. Steir, Macalester CollegeFollow

Document Type

Honors Project

Abstract

The British Museum has a long and complex relationship with the British Colonial project. Applying museum theory to case studies found in the museum, this paper explores the ways in which empire is reconstructed within the British Museum, and also investigates how public gallery spaces can engage with controversial history. In the 21^st century the museum struggles to reinvent itself as a universal institution presenting collections from around the world with sensitivity. However, the museum still expresses nostalgia for the imperial past, and presents a specific and homogenous image of the ideal British citizen.

Recommended Citation

Steir, Katherine E., "Organizing the World: Power Dynamics and “Civilization” in the British Museum" (2012). History Honors Projects. 14.
https://digitalcommons.macalester.edu/history_honors/14