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Turbulent times: what is truth?

The 16th century was a turbulent time of (religious) wars, major changes and new discoveries. The book printing press accelerated the spread of information. Life in modern times is also turbulent and we are inundated with information. Who decides on the messages sent out into the world? Did fake news, censorship and propaganda also exist back then? This is a fascinating tour for critical minds.

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Turbulent times: what is truth?
©Jeroen Broeckx

Guided tour - 2nd and 3rd stage secondary education (pupils aged 14-18)

The guided tour focuses on the 16th century as a period of humanism and Stoicism. Scientific and academic research flourished. Interest in other countries and cultures grew across Europe. Arabic and various ancient languages, such as Hebrew and Aramaic, were studied.

Even back then, there was an attempt to control and steer the flow of information. Religious and secular powers wanted to control the news being shared with the world. Who is telling the truth? 

 

Practical information

  • Guided tour for 2nd and 3rd stage secondary education (pupils aged 14-18)
  • 90 minutes
  • €100 per guide
  • Museum admission is free for school groups. Be sure to book your free admission tickets in advance.
  • Your ticket is valid for the entire day, so be sure to spend time exploring the rest of the museum.

Be sure to use our app and the lesson plan. These will help you prepare for the visit and to continue working on the content back in the classroom.

What to expect?

  • The ideal tour to pique your students' critical thinking skills
  • A guided tour highlighting Plantin's book production and the worldview of the 16th century
  • Opportunity for dialogue and personal reflection
  • A bridge between the past and present
Themes

The art of book printing and media, craftsmanship & technology, heritage, visual language, power & knowledge

Key competencies

Historical awareness, cultural awareness, critical thinking, language skills, media literacy, sense of initiative

Relevant subjects

History, Dutch, art appreciation/aesthetics, PAV (Integrated General Studies), graphic arts 

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