Playing the values: Sound and vision of the violin of the Titanic

Historical Context

• The violin was played by Wallace Hartley, the bandmaster on the Titanic, to calm passengers as the ship sank on April 14-15, 1912.
• Hartley’s body was found with the violin strapped to his back, and it was later returned to his fiancée, Maria Robinson.

Prosthetic Memory

• The concept of “prosthetic memory” is discussed, where media and cinema create a collective memory of events not personally experienced by individuals.
• The violin’s story has been romanticized and popularized through films and media, enhancing its emotional and historical value.

Economic Value

• The violin was sold at auction for over $1.7 million in 2013, a significant increase from its original value.
• Its high price is attributed to its historical significance and the emotional connection fostered by media portrayals.

Ethical Considerations

• The article questions whether the violin should be preserved as a museum piece or restored to be played again.
• It discusses the ethical implications of private ownership versus public access, considering the violin’s status as a cultural artifact.

Cultural Heritage

• The violin is seen as a symbol of the Titanic tragedy and has been exhibited in various museums.
• The debate centres on whether its value lies in its physical presence or the sound it could produce if restored.

Stakeholders

• Different stakeholders, including museums, media, and auction houses, have influenced the violin’s perceived value.
• Museums emphasize its historical and emotional significance, while auction houses focus on its economic value.