Archaeology and Nationalism (329-0-20)
Instructors
Ann C Gunter
847/467-0873
Kresge 4333
Meeting Info
Kresge Centennial Hall 2-339: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
Archaeology and nationalism have been closely intertwined at least since the idea of the nation-state emerged in Europe following the French Revolution. Archaeology offers nationalist agendas the possibility of filling in national historical records and extending the past far into prehistory. Its results can be displayed in museums, occupy entire sites, and be readily accessible online—thus potentially reaching many new audiences beyond traditional print media. In turn, nationalism has contributed significantly to the development of archaeology as a modern discipline that emerged largely within colonial contexts deeply embedded in imperial motivations and problematic theories around race. More recently, the growth and influence of global heritage and institutions such as UNESCO's World Heritage Centre have reshaped the political and cultural landscape of archaeological sites conceptualized as loci of national identity and pride, while introducing new tensions around equitable access to its resources and the often contradictory political and economic benefits of increased tourism.
Drawing on new critical approaches and case studies selected from a wide geographical range, this course explores the role of archaeology in the creation and elaboration of national identities from the late eighteenth century to the present day. It emphasizes the identification of historical and archaeological sources and their critical evaluation. Issues include the professionalization of archaeology and its institutionalization in universities and antiquities services; the development of national museums and associated practices of display and interpretation; the creation and maintenance of archaeological sites as national monuments and tourist destinations; cultural property legislation and controversies over the repatriation of artifacts, often those removed during the era of colonial rule; and the special role of archaeology and monuments in cultural politics under totalitarian regimes.
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives: Historical Studies
• Acquire knowledge of the role of archaeology and ancient history in exploring and fashioning new notions of collective identity in the modern nation-state from the late 18th century to the present
• Understand how imperial and colonial administrations helped shape archaeology as a discipline and promote its prominence in academic and other institutional settings (such as museums, antiquities services, and cultural heritage organizations)
• Learn to evaluate historical sources relevant to the political, cultural, and institutional developments that accompanied and followed the introduction of archaeological investigations in the service of national agendas
• Express the results of historical investigation in different modalities: engage in scholarly conversations, through reading and writing, with published scholarly work
Learning Objectives: Global Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity
• Understand the history of international agreements and institutional structures governing cultural heritage and the ways in which they also shape national practices around archaeological research and the development and presentation of archaeological sites as national cultural and economic resources
• Learn about current debates involving repatriation and restitution of cultural property and the range of challenges they present (including legal, ethical, and sustainability issues)
Teaching Method
Lecture and group discussion.
Evaluation Method
Reading responses, short papers, class discussion and presentation.
Class Materials (Required)
Required readings will be available on CANVAS.
Class Attributes
Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area
Global Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity