Topic > Some highlights of the “Modern Colony” exhibition at the National Museum

My visit to the National Museum was thorough and enriching. In this essay I will highlight some of my key learnings from the “Modern Colony” exhibition and how they have helped improve my understanding of Singapore's history. The main themes explained are gender, cosmopolitanism, modernity and technology, all coupled together with the idea of ​​progress. The exhibition space was modeled after a black-and-white bungalow, in a style once commonly used to house European colonial and colonial homes. expatriate families. Mannequins were on display displaying various pieces of colonial-style British clothing and flamboyant cocktail dresses. Some of the finds were glazed; items such as British novelties, decorative glassware and exquisite tableware. Jazz music was played subtly in the background. The setting, as a whole, was representative of the culture and lifestyle of wealthy Britons before the Second World War. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The first theme explained is genre. Over the years, structural changes such as the expansion of education to include women and external factors such as modernization have led to greater opportunities for women and a greater emphasis placed on women's empowerment. In the early 1900s, women's roles were mostly confined to the home. In contrast, in the 1920s and 1930s, women began attending school and participating in recreational activities. I believe that the traditional mindset adopted by society at that time was the main reason why women's roles were limited and confined to the home, despite having the potential to be as successful as men in the workplace. During colonialism, the British introduced Western culture, and this culture influenced the mentality of the local people, causing people to become more liberal and open to change. I believe that this increased acceptance of a new way of life for women has been a key factor in the advancement of women in all aspects of life, and the items in the exhibition support my understanding of the British cultural influence attributed to the advancement of women in the past. One of the objects on display was the preparation of a meal. The crockery was displayed in an orderly manner, with correct and elaborate placement. Great emphasis was placed on meeting on time for meals. Therefore, it is evident that good food etiquette was deeply rooted in the lives of wealthy Britons. This subculture has been adopted to some extent by Singaporeans, as seen in the growing number of families now practicing good table manners and punctual meals. As seen from the menu on the table, British meals were elaborate, with their components listed in detail. More importantly, British diets were cosmopolitan. While most of the dishes were Western fare, local Singaporean food was also included as menu options for some meals. The integration of local flavors by the English into their culinary tastes was a small sign of early cultural development in Singapore. Likewise, we locals have, to some extent, incorporated British practices into our lives, especially in this age where Singapore positions itself as a first world country in an increasingly globalized world. This exhibition supports my understanding that cosmopolitanism had already begun to manifest itself in the early years of Singapore's growth. Please note: this is just an example. Get it now.