To make history come alive, we enjoy visiting museums. At the moment we are really fond of visiting museums with focus on one particular memorable historical person. We try to relate to that time when that person lived and understand how their lives has been. We get inspired and find energy from the strength and quirkiness of that person.
I have never really liked Karen Blixen. But the more we came across her in our studies and just what we were talking about at home, I more and more felt we had to go see her museum. I had seen the movie “Out of Africa” and I hated it. But as she was on our list to read on the public recommended list for primary school, I thought it was a good idea to give her a chance and keep an open mind. The kids should make up their own mind.
It is a very beautiful museum and lies in a very beautiful part of Denmark. The museum is in her old childhood home and it is also the place she spent most of her life. The museum staff was friendly and we felt were welcome. The museum has a sponsorship for fresh flowers to use for flower decorations around the museum. So the whole museum is full of beautiful fresh flower decorations and that together with Karen Blixens old furniture and stylish decor gives an all together peaceful setting.
There was so much that we didn’t know about her. That she was a brilliant painter. That she was an excellent storyteller. That she had made a pact with the devil. That she suffered from syphilis and a stomach disorder. That she had to struggle really hard to get her books published and was rejected many times. That she was first published in the USA. That she had met Marilyn Monroe.
The museum also had worksheets for the children to complete, which helped us get around and see the whole museum and not miss anything. The staff was also very helpfull with information.
Karen Blixen had a great advice for the next generation – The most important in life is to have courage, humour and love.
