“Tutmania,” the Tutankhamen exhibit, and how popular narratives shape our views of history

On June 8th we discussed the “Tutmania” phenomenon, and how popular narratives shape our views of history. The Tutankhamun exhibit is now at COSI, Columbus’s Science and Industry museum. Dr. Johanna Sellman, Associate Professor of Near Eastern and South Asian Languages and Cultures, shared her knowledge of narratives and their power to shape the way we perceive the world in general and Egypt in particular. We give some background information on “Tutmania,” why its influence may still shape the way we view Tutankhamun, and how visitors can get the most out of this spectacular exhibit at COSI by adopting a more critical view. Rahma Anjum, Lead Intern of the Middle East Studies Center, conducted much of the interview.

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