In this most recent section of the book we read about the
narrator’s further investigations into the phenomena that take place concerning
the foundation of these various Wonder-cabinets, from places all over from
Europe to North America. His research grants him more of the same, however. He
repeatedly finds some things that credit Mr. Wilson and his Museum of Jurassic
Technology, but he also finds things that can be interpreted to discredit Mr.
Wilson. Especially suspicious is the correlation between the Thums and their
English counterparts, the Tradescants.
One thing
is certain, though. Museums presented in the style of the Museum of Jurassic
Technology are nothing new at all. These collections of curiosities even
predate the current modern conventions and characteristics held by museums. It
was interesting to read that these practices have originated from people like
private hoarders to moral zealots and even Russian monarchs. This led me to a
new conclusion. If the odd trinkets and charms of this museum does not prove
interesting for you, then the antiquity behind the essence of this museum
should, even from a simply historical point of view. Like I have mentioned
before, I think Mr. Wilson so far genuinely believes in the exhibits of his
place, but even if he doesn’t succeed in creating a completely honest or
consistent atmosphere, he does succeed in building an accurate model and
monument to the Wonder cabinets of the past. To even attempt to recreate the
awe-inspiring wonder felt by the Europeans exposed to the New World is a
noteworthy feat at least.
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