Trapped in Time: Gender Representation in Archaeological Museum Exhibitions in Europe

Abstract

This chapter assesses the extent to which gender-informed narratives exist in archaeological exhibitions in Europe in the twenty-first century. It does so by examining a selection of permanent and temporary exhibitions organised in museums but not exclusively, based on the authors’ per sonal observations during museum visits and the review of current publications on gender in archaeological museums. The chapter argues that the integration of gender- balanced and diverse representations, and of the current knowledge about gender in the archaeological past, is rather the excep tion than the norm in European exhibitions. The chapter explores the multiple reasons behind this reality, which vary from the communication gap between gender archae ologists and museum professionals, to mentalities embed ded in conservative socio- cultural contexts, priorities of political agendas, funding, as well as little awareness of, or openness to, gender issues.