In an attempt to modernise, the National Trust has arranged for its staff and volunteers to be “reverse-mentored” by school children about the links between National Trust properties and slavery and colonialism. Pupils have been drafted in to uncover the “uncomfortable truths” of Britain’s shameful past and give lessons to the adults who preserve its buildings, gardens and countryside.
At first glance, it seems odd that young people are being used to re-educate the knowledgeable guardians of our great country houses. What could an expert in 17th century portraits learn from a 12 year old? What could the “child advisory board” teach to the keepers of Cliveden House? However, the simplicity of a child’s question can reveal a hidden truth. “Why is that man in the painting carrying a sword? Does he want to stab someone?”. With devastating precision, a childish question can reveal the murderous horror hiding in plain sight. Only a child can see so clearly.
This clarity of vision is only possible from a young mind that has not been warped by the nuance and perspective gained from life experience. Lacking historical understanding, children can provide judgement on a past that they don’t need to fully understand. By simply looking at paintings in the grand houses, palaces and mansions, children are pointing out that they were once inhabited by people who fought wars, colonised other countries and made their wealth from exploitation and plunder. By telling National Trust employees that this is bad, youngsters are delivering a simple lesson in morality.
Guides can now improve the ‘visitor experience’ by helping visitors to feel disgust at what they see.
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