107-530 History and Philosophy of Museums

Entry into the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in art history, the MA curatorship or the master of cinema management.

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. Special attention will be given to the ways in which the changing objectives of the museum (e.g. moral elevation, public instruction, mass entertainment, propaganda) are reflected in the architecture, design and display techniques developed in different countries in 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. This will include visits to appropriate sites and institutions.

• have further developed their research skills;

• have developed their ability to think and argue critically and to express their ideas in written communication;

• have developed skills in oral presentation.

A 2000 word exercise 40% (due during the semester) and a 3000 word research essay 50% (due in the examination period), and class participation 10%. A minimum 75% attendance at tutorials is also expected as a hurdle requirement in order to pass the subject.

A subject reader will be available.