These discussions are meant for you to jot down your thoughts and analyses of the works of the week. In art, everything is evaluated by your perspective. There is no right or wrong answer to be graded against; instead, you will be graded on how you defend your analysis of the art pieces and the use of the resources (when appropriate). This week you have learned about Cambodia’s efforts to return stolen artifacts. The issue of museum repatriation is not exclusive to Cambodia. The so-called “Elgin Marbles,” which famously adorned the Ancient Greek Parthenon, are currently located in the British Museum, despite Greece’s efforts to repatriate the sculptures. Bronze and ivory sculptures violently looted from Africa in times of war remain in European and American museums. As archaeological standards evolve over time, this issue will be continually addressed and re-addressed.
Let us explore your thoughts on museum repatriation.
- What responsibilities do the museums have to the cultures of origin and to rectify the misdeeds of the past?
- What responsibilities do they have to the objects themselves?
- What is the best way to satisfy both?
