The first two chapters of Griffiths book ‘Wonderous Differences’ was an interesting explanation of Anthropologists impact on both the American Museum of Natural History and the traveling show. I have been to the American Museum of Natural History many times before and was fascinated to know much research and care went into creating the experience that one has when visiting the museum. The museum had to be a place that captured the eyes of normal people and encouraged those who normally wouldn’t venture in to do so. Comparing the museum to an amusement park or a shopping mall was comical. I have never thought of it that way however it needed to attract as many people and be an open environment for people of all ages and status.

I enjoyed the way the author explained how the museum should make a person feel, “ under the spell of nature” and have an almost “drunkenness” to them. I believe this to be true as a feeling comes across you as you enter and walk through the dim, quiet and mysterious turns of the hallways. Seating is placed just right and the lighting on the displays is arranged in such a way as to not take away from the art. Knowing how much energy and thought was put into the placement of the display and making sure I am not too distracted as I pass through the halls makes me appreciate the museum even more.

In Chapter 2 Griffith goes on to explain the traveling shows/fairs that were put on. These fairs showed the American people what those of other cultures ate, dressed like and acted in their daily lives. These museums of mankind were fascinating to people and attracted many who wanted to experience all different cultures in one day. It is human nature to be interested in things that are different from you and this show did just that and gave those who never had the chance to stand next to a person completely different than them and just stare.

It is interesting that nudity was such a big deal and although it was fine to show the natives interacting in their daily lives, they could not do so in their traditional wear. The president told them that they must wear something that covered their privates from the public. So although these natives were awed at they were also asked to transform to a more ‘western’ appearance and began to be ridiculed and targeted inside and outside of the fair. The cinema could not compare to seeing a live person up close and personal.

I wonder what those who were ‘performing’ felt about themselves being put on display in such a manner. The article briefly discussed this but I am just wondering was it an honor or a bit shameful to be in a traveling show as a native?