PALEONTOLOGIA E MEMÓRIA: EXPOSIÇÕES DE PALEONTOLOGIA DO MUSEU NACIONAL/UFRJ PRÉ-INCÊNDIO
Keywords:
Exhibitions, Paleontology, Museu Nacional/UFRJ, Brazil, Education, SocietyAbstract
Museums are institutions that serve society and its development, are open to the public, and are responsible for acquiring, conserving, researching, disseminating, and exhibiting materials and testimonies of their environment for the education and enjoyment of society. The Museu Nacional of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), in this context, stands out as one of the most important Brazilian institutions dedicated to safeguarding objects dating back to the 19th century, including a rich paleontological collection with both national and international fossils. The history of this institution highlights its significance in the dissemination and popularization of science, particularly Brazilian paleontology, to the general public. In order to recover the history of the paleontological exhibitions of this institution, historical documentation was gathered, and interviews were conducted with scientists and other museum staff. It was possible to identify significant changes in how paleontological science has been presented to the public, especially through the modernization of exhibitions. More contemporary elements—both scientifically accurate and visually appealing—marked a new stage in the display of paleontology in Brazil. The closer relationship between the museum and society enables greater investment in science and inspires future researchers.
