“Risking the wrath of Muslims” and defending core Western principles of free inquiry.
From the Telegraph (thanks to all who sent this in):
Denmark’s Royal Library is risking the wrath of Muslims with plans to display controversial cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed that sparked violent protest throughout the Islamic world two years ago.
The 12 caricatures of Islam’s founder were published in Danish newspapers in September 2005 triggering riots and violence which claimed the lives of over 50 people.
Copenhagen’s Royal Library — founded by King Frederik III in 17th century — is courting a new controversy by classifying the cartoons as “historic” objects alongside other Danish treasures, such as original manuscripts by Martin Luther.
“We hope we can secure all of the works to preserve them for the future.
The caricatures have become a part of Danish history,” Royal Library spokesperson Jytte Kjaergaard told the UK’s Art Newspaper. But the images are likely to remain locked away from the public gaze.
“We are not interested in an exhibition, we are interested in them being kept safe for future generations,” the Royal Library spokeswoman said.
“This is the obvious place to keep them because we have all the security measures in place. It would be very difficult for a private person to come in and sabotage them because to see them for research purposes you will need a letter of consent from your university professor. They will be treated like any rare book.”…