Etymology of the Word Museum

The word ‘museum’ has its roots in the classical world, like so many words in the English language (boring).

In the Greek form it was ‘mouseion’, which translates to ‘the seat of the Muses’, a place for philosophical discussion and general thinking about things.

The modern form of the word ‘museum’ now refers to places that purport to collect, conserve and preserve artefacts and objects of social, scientific and cultural importance.

However the history of museums is a grim one, and at Crab Museum we are well aware of the legacy that we are part of.

Museums can be places of learning, but they can also be places of violence. Where atrocities against people, cultures, environments and their histories are repeatedly displayed and manipulated.

At Crab Museum we prefer the original definition of what a museum should be - a place where visitors are encouraged to think critically about the world around them.

But don’t worry, we’ve still got a gift shop.