Reference no: EM133413805
Assignment:
I need help to work on an object biography on "Mummy of a Woman called Nephthys"
The prompt is
"Select a physical object or specimen that is currently or was previously in a museum collection and write about history through a critical lens. You should treat this object as a kind of primary source (perhaps one you might use in your final project). Your 'objects' may be human made, human remains, or something in between. Below you will find some examples to choose from. You are also welcome to an object that is not on the list, as it is clearly relevant to the course themes.
Each biography should note the object's various life stages from production/birth, uses, collection, museum acquisition and use, and present location. Each biography should also address as many of the following questions as you think are relevant:
- Is this object a 'type' representing one of many? (This will be particularly relevant for objects with little unique identifiable information)
- In what ways did colonialism shape this object's biography?
- Was this object repatriated to its country/place/community of origin? If yes, explain the circumstances. If not, why?
- What does this object tell us about imperial collecting and/or the politics of museums in the past and/or present?
- What kind of science or race science was this object a part of? What does it tell us about the relationship between science, race, medicine, and/or technology?
- Do you think this piece be considered an object of scientific study, an instrument or tool, an artifact, a belonging, a person, or something else? Why?
- What are the scientific, racist, or postcolonial legacies of this object today?
You may use information on the museum's website, collections details, or catalogue in your write up. However, each biography should utilize at least one additional peer-reviewed secondary source, and one primary source, that relate to the object in question - whether directly or indirectly. These sources can come from the course syllabus, the supplementary reading list, or independent research. You may ask me for suggestions if you feel stuck after you've exhausted these options.
Format Requirements
Please make sure your object biographies meet these format requirements:
- Analysis should be approximately two pages (single-spaced) or four pages excluding a bibliography and images.
- Use 1-inch margins
- Number your pages
- Include at least 1 image
Criteria for Evaluation
- Level of understanding of your chosen object and its context.
- Ability to construct a coherent narrative and analysis, supported through primary and secondary sources.
- Demonstrated level of originality and critical thought.
- A clear opening paragraph that succinctly identifies your object (the who/what/where/when), the thematic focus of your analysis, and establishes your argument or point of view.
- Attention to paragraph-level organization, making each paragraph or section a logical step in your analysis.
- Suitability and effective use of evidence.
- Choice of and engagement with secondary and primary sources.
- Selection of a thoughtful title for your object biography.
- Good grammar and essay mechanics (title, spelling, punctuation) - please proofread!!!
- Ability to follow instructions, format, and citation requirements."