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Mikhail Sholokhov's 'And Quiet Flows the Don' Celebrated in Moscow Exhibition

Discover the story behind Sholokhov's masterpiece. See rare manuscripts and learn about his courageous stance during Stalin's regime.

In the image there are many people looking at the posters and charts on the wall,this seems to be a...
In the image there are many people looking at the posters and charts on the wall,this seems to be a art museum.

Mikhail Sholokhov's 'And Quiet Flows the Don' Celebrated in Moscow Exhibition

Russia's Museum of Modern History has launched an exhibition, 'The Century of 'And Quiet Flows the Don', marking 100 years since Mikhail Sholokhov began his epic novel and his 120th anniversary. The event coincides with Donbas' return to Russia, the region that inspired Sholokhov's masterpiece.

The exhibition showcases Sholokhov's literary journey, including his initial plan for a book about Cossacks in Kornilov’s campaign, which later evolved into the broader novel 'And Quiet Flows the Don'. Visitors can see a 1925 edition of Roman-Gazeta featuring 'Tales of the Don' and a portrait of the young Sholokhov, aged 20.

Key artifacts include the original manuscripts of the first two books of the novel, loaned by the Institute of World Literature. The exhibition also displays an issue of Oktyabr magazine from 1928-29, featuring the first two volumes and the opening of the third of 'And Quiet Flows the Don'.

Sholokhov's correspondence with fellow Soviet writers, including Fadeyev, during the novel's creation is highlighted. The exhibition reveals how Sholokhov and Fadeyev opposed significant changes to the text proposed by the new editor of Oktyabr. Sholokhov's refusal to rewrite Grigory Melekhov as a Bolshevik, even when demanded by the editor-in-chief, is also showcased.

The exhibition aims to portray Sholokhov's extraordinary talent, unshakable convictions, and civic courage. It also acknowledges Sholokhov's intervention in releasing arrested and tortured individuals during Stalin's regime.

The 'The Century of 'And Quiet Flows the Don' exhibition offers a comprehensive look into the life and work of Mikhail Sholokhov. It celebrates his literary genius and his courageous stance during challenging times. The event is a testament to the enduring impact of 'And Quiet Flows the Don' on Russian literature and culture.

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