MODERNLİĞİN RİTÜELLERİ: MÜZE MİMARİSİ, ARKEOLOJİK SERGİLER VE ULUSAL KİMLİĞİN OLUŞUMU

This thesis investigates the evolving relationship between state-led archaeological narratives and public perception in Türkiye, focusing on the tension between authorized heritage discourse and contemporary identities. It addresses the widening gap between the top-down nation-state heritage frameworks of the early Republican era and the diverse, increasingly utilitarian ways modern society interacts with cultural heritage. To analyze how archaeology serves as a tool for identity construction, a dual methodology was employed: (1) a field study at the Anatolian Civilizations Museum measuring visitor perception, and (2) a digital discourse analysis of Ekşi Sözlük to capture non-institutional debates. The findings reveal that the most decisive factor in heritage perception is generational differentiation, reflecting a clear transition from a state-centric citizen model to a globalized consumer model. While Gen-X maintains a necessary conformity to the museum’s authoritative discourse, seeking national enlightenment through institutional truth, Gen-Y reclaims heritage as a stage for emotional and sovereign identity. Conversely, Gen-Z adopts a pragmatic, experience-oriented approach, utilizing social media to seek universal thinking rather than national myths. Ultimately, this shift indicates that traditional institutional authority is being superseded by a pluralistic, digitally mediated, and inquiry-based public perception. This transformation necessitates a transition toward more inclusive heritage policies that move beyond national prestige to reflect the multifaceted identity searches of contemporary society.