Narrative of civilization

Definition

The narrative of civilization refers to the historical storytelling framework that presents a linear progression of human development, typically emphasizing Western achievements while often marginalizing or omitting the contributions and experiences of non-Western cultures. This narrative is deeply intertwined with colonialism, shaping how museums and art institutions curate collections and present history to reinforce specific cultural hierarchies and ideologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The narrative of civilization often presents a biased account that elevates Western history while diminishing the significance of non-Western cultures in global development.
2. This narrative has historically justified colonial expansion by framing it as a 'civilizing mission,' leading to the appropriation of art and artifacts from colonized nations.
3. Museums and art institutions play a key role in perpetuating this narrative by their choices in exhibitions, collections, and educational materials.
4. The critique of the narrative of civilization has led to calls for decolonization in museums, promoting more inclusive representations of history that recognize diverse cultural contributions.
5. Recognizing the narrative of civilization is essential for understanding the power dynamics in cultural institutions and addressing issues of representation and equity.

Review Questions

• How does the narrative of civilization shape the way museums present history and culture?
  • The narrative of civilization shapes museum presentations by emphasizing a linear progression of development that highlights Western achievements while often ignoring or misrepresenting non-Western cultures. This results in curated exhibits that may reinforce stereotypes and uphold colonial perspectives. By prioritizing certain narratives over others, museums can influence public understanding of history and culture, reflecting broader societal values.
• In what ways has the critique of the narrative of civilization led to changes in curation practices within museums?
  • Critiques of the narrative of civilization have prompted many museums to rethink their curation practices, focusing on inclusivity and representation. This shift includes re-evaluating collections to ensure that diverse cultural contributions are acknowledged, engaging with communities from which artifacts originate, and incorporating multiple perspectives into exhibits. These changes aim to dismantle Eurocentric narratives and promote a more equitable understanding of global histories.
• Evaluate how the narrative of civilization intersects with colonial legacy in shaping contemporary art institutions.
  • The intersection of the narrative of civilization with colonial legacy significantly influences contemporary art institutions by perpetuating historical injustices through their collections and exhibitions. As institutions grapple with their colonial pasts, they face challenges in reconciling their roles as custodians of cultural heritage while also acknowledging the exploitative origins of many artifacts. This evaluation requires art institutions to critically assess their practices, actively decolonize their narratives, and commit to fostering diverse voices and perspectives within the art world.

Related terms

Eurocentrism: A worldview that prioritizes European culture and history as central to understanding global development, often disregarding or undervaluing other cultures.

Colonial Legacy: The ongoing impact and influence of colonial practices, including cultural appropriation and power imbalances, that affect contemporary societies and institutions.

Curation: The process of selecting, organizing, and presenting artworks or artifacts in museums or galleries, which can reflect underlying narratives and values.