Canadian and World Studies Department:

World History Classes Visit the Royal Ontario Museum

“That all men may know his works”

This is the inscription that greets visitors upon entering the Rotunda of the Royal Ontario Museum. The Museum offers insight into some of the World’s greatest civilizations and their “works”.

The Grade 11 World History classes had a chance to see firsthand what they learn about in class. On October 21, 2005 we set out for a journey through the world’s civilizations and despite the on-going construction at the museum we visited most of the galleries. According to the students the highlights were seeing the Egyptian mummies especially the animal mummies and the miraculously preserved mummy of Djedmaatesankh, a female temple singer from 850 B.C.E.

We also had the opportunity to explore the Greek world exhibit with its fine pottery, jewellery, statues and coins. Students were especially impressed with such sights as the memorial statues and pottery to Alexander the Great.

The Roman Exhibit probably took the longest to see- an impressive collection of items used in everyday life which students could relate to and understand. Of course, the gladiator armour and helmets were the “must see” for us.

From the Babylonian Lion to the Bat Cave the trip allowed us all to travel back in time and explore human history.

As the tour director commented- human nature never changes, only the circumstances change.

Looking forward to our field trip next semester!

Miss M. Pucciarelli