Charting Maritime Heritage: The Establishments of the Norwegian Seafaring Museum on Bygdøy and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich

Abstract

This thesis delves into the establishment of the Norwegian Seafaring Museum on Bygdøy (1914) and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich (1934), providing a comprehensive comparative analysis of the economic, social, cultural, and political motivations behind the early years of their foundations. By examining the discourses that shaped these institutions, the study uncovers how both museums became embodiments of heritage discourses, focusing on themes of honor, pride, duty, tradition, progress, and power. The establishment of these museums not only preserved maritime heritage but also transformed into arenas where narratives and ideas of national maritime heritage are continuously negotiated, constructed, and challenged. This analysis highlights the unique and sometimes surprising factors influencing each museum’s narrative, such as the continuation of themes from earlier World Exhibitions and the differing emphases on exploration, adventure, shipping, and trade. By examining the authority dynamics within the museums and their impact on collections and educational goals, the thesis underscores the critical role of museum leaders and contributors in shaping institutional narratives. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how maritime history is presented and perceived, engaging in a critical dialogue that questions and redefines the prevailing notions of maritime heritage. Through the lens of AHD and memory studies, this research offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between heritage, memory, and identity, demonstrating how these museums continue to influence and reflect national identity narratives in both Norway and Britain.

This thesis delves into the establishment of the Norwegian Seafaring Museum on Bygdøy (1914) and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich (1934), providing a comprehensive comparative analysis of the economic, social, cultural, and political motivations behind the early years of their foundations. By examining the discourses that shaped these institutions, the study uncovers how both museums became embodiments of heritage discourses, focusing on themes of honor, pride, duty, tradition, progress, and power. The establishment of these museums not only preserved maritime heritage but also transformed into arenas where narratives and ideas of national maritime heritage are continuously negotiated, constructed, and challenged. This analysis highlights the unique and sometimes surprising factors influencing each museum’s narrative, such as the continuation of themes from earlier World Exhibitions and the differing emphases on exploration, adventure, shipping, and trade. By examining the authority dynamics within the museums and their impact on collections and educational goals, the thesis underscores the critical role of museum leaders and contributors in shaping institutional narratives. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how maritime history is presented and perceived, engaging in a critical dialogue that questions and redefines the prevailing notions of maritime heritage. Through the lens of AHD and memory studies, this research offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between heritage, memory, and identity, demonstrating how these museums continue to influence and reflect national identity narratives in both Norway and Britain.