Ancient Adventures in a Newly Constructed Past Exploring the Holy Land Experience in Orlando, Florida

Author

C. Tara Ingram

Date of Award

2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Baram, Uzi

Keywords

Heritage, Theme Parks, Authenticity

Area of Concentration

Anthropology

Abstract

This thesis explores notions of authenticity, pilgrimage and commodification of the past at the Holy Land Experience (HLE) in Orlando Florida. The HLE is both a biblical theme park and a living history museum in Orlando, Florida. I argue, primarily, that as a living museum the HLE is essentially inauthentic in that it odes not educate visitors about history, as it claims to, but instead uses it as a method for transmitting the founding organization�s Zion�s Hopeunique prophetic ministry. This method is neither obvious nor explicit, but by exploring and considering the HLE�s various displays, especially the Scriptorium, I expose the deeper meaning which motivates Zion�s Hope.

Recommended Citation

Ingram, C. Tara, "Ancient Adventures in a Newly Constructed Past Exploring the Holy Land Experience in Orlando, Florida" (2006). Theses & ETDs. 3661.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3661