Building upon my experiences in HIST 602: Modern Middle East, I wanted to continue examining different cultures and histories that connected to my historical interest in Europe.  HIST 532: Africa In/Out of Hollywood provided this opportunity by examining African cultures and history through secondary sources as well as Hollywood films.  During this course, assignments and weekly discussions were focused on comparing Africa's depiction in Hollywood films to that of scholarly sources.  These assignments and discussions prepared me for completion of a  historiography on the Anglo-Zulu War.  This course and my historiography allowed me to complete the third learning outcome by assessing and critiquing historical schools of thought and assessing where my conclusions fit into scholarly literature.  Locating necessary material was challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic which limited my access to some sources and films.

Much like HIST 602: Modern Middle East, I began this course with a heavily Eurocentric knowledge and interest.  Most of my historical knowledge regarding Africa was via European colonial interests I have encountered in other research.  As I discovered with my historiography Middle Eastern oil, this can provide a strong focal point for research.  This course offered an opportunity to combine my interests with African cultures and history by consulting scholarly literature.  In addition,  investigating the accuracy of Africa's depiction in Hollywood films generated some unique approaches to my research.  Particularly the observation of social and political currents during the time these films and scholarly sources were produced.  

Initially, I was uncertain about the relevance of Hollywood films to scholarly discussions. Adding the critique of films to that of secondary sources presented some unique challenges. Mainly the comparison of Africa's portrayal in films to that of scholarly works and then situating both within my own.  This created a shift in my work by forcing me to go beyond scholarly consensus alone.   
Comparing portrayals in films to scholarly consensus certainly highlighted some inaccuracies and stereotypes.  But more importantly, it showed the challenge that historians face in attempting to correct this misinformation.  Films and under-scrutinized sources may be captivating and entertaining but they can also spread misinformation.  As a museum professional, it is important to explore scholarly consensus and deliver such information in an engaging manner.