HIST 2811A: Public History from Memory to Museums
Fall 2023
Instructor: Prof. David Dean
Introduction: This course introduces you to public history, a new relatively new field that explores the ways in which the past is represented in sites such as museums, archives, films, theatre performances, walking tours, monuments and memorials, historical novels, graphic novels, video games, family photograph albums, and digital platforms. Public historians do not only study historical representations but actively create history in the present, usually in collaboration with others. To study public history is to come to terms with the contested nature of history itself, and to situate narratives of history within contexts such as public memory, identity, and politics. While frequently referring to public history in Canada, students taking this course will encounter how public history is practiced across the globe. A key component of the course is working collaboratively with community partners towards achieving a common goal.
Class Format: We meet once a week in a three-hour block. We will be splitting our time between in person lectures, field work (including meeting with community partners), and working online.
Aims and Goals: You will leave this course with (1) an understanding of what public history is (2) a familiarity with the methods, theories, and approaches of public history (3) an awareness of the many ways in which the past has a presence in our everyday lives (4) how public history works in a variety of national and transnational contexts (5) having experienced working in a team on a group project (6) working with community partners towards a deliverable.
Assessment: attendance and participation (20%); written responses (30%); and group project (50%, including scaffolding, self- and group assessments, as well as the final project presentation and report).
Text: The set text for the course is Thomas Cauvin, Public History. A Textbook of Practice (2nd ed., Routledge, 2022) available through Haven Books. It is vital that you purchase the 2nd edition.
Questions? Please email me at David.Dean@carleton.ca