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History and Philosophy of Museums (AHIS90005)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
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Semester 1
Overview
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This subject examines the growth of the museum from its origins in the wunderkammer and antiquarian collections of the 16th century to the dynamic and constantly shifting field of possibilities available to museums today. The subject charts the progression of the museum from the private collections of the Renaissance and Baroque to the vast public institutional spaces of the late 18th and 19th centuries, and beyond. Students will also address the various functions of the museum in Western culture from its inception to the present day. Special attention will be given to the ways in which the changing objectives of the museum (e.g. entertainment, propaganda, education) are reflected in the architecture, design and the display techniques developed in different countries at different times. Students should develop an understanding of the relationship between museums and concepts of national and cultural identity, focusing on their development within Australia and internationally.
Intended learning outcomes
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Examine the social, cultural and political history of museums and the history of collecting, and explain their changing impact on society
- Analyse the changing role of museums / galleries in society as reflected in public understandings of their architecture, design and display techniques.
- Apply an understanding of the relationship between museums and concepts of national and cultural identity to critique the mission statements of public arts institutions.
Generic skills
At the completion of this subject, students should gain the following generic skills:
- Further developed their research skills
- Developed their ability to think and argue critically and to express their ideas in written communication
- Developed skills in oral presentation.
Last updated: 27 November 2024