Transhistoricism

A critical reassessment of the Altes Museum on Berlin's Museum Island reveals that its historical and political narratives have been systematically censored, obscuring its ties to power structures such as those related to politics, religion, military, and economics. The study argues for a more transparent approach—'transhistoricism'—that openly addresses the museum's complex, heterogeneous histories rather than perpetuating a homogenizing mythology of universality. This perspective challenges conventional museological practices by advocating for the acknowledgment of institutional instrumentalization, particularly in light of Museum Island's evolving role as a site of contested heritage, including the controversial 2019 reconstruction of the former royal palace.

Loeseke, A. (2018). Transhistoricism. The Contemporary Museum, 142–151. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780815364948-9