Memory of Russia: Exhibition devoted to Mikhail Sholokhov's works created during his stay at the Stalingrad front to open in Rostov Region

From June 29 to September 19, 2021, the Mikhail Sholokhov' Museum-Reserve (Rostov Region) hosts an exhibition "Science of Hate". It runs at the Excursion and Exhibition Centre "People's House". The exposition is arranged by the specialists of the "Battle of Stalingrad" Museum-Reserve and supported by the Volgograd Regional Branch of the Russian Military Historical Society and the Regional Branch of the Russian Historical Society in Volgograd. The project is devoted to Mikhail Sholokhov's works created during his visit to the Stalingrad front and Kamyshin in 1942.

One of the most outstanding works of Mikhail Alexandrovich, written during that period, is the story Science of Hate, published in the Pravda newspaper on June 22, 1942. It focuses on the impressions of the writer's meetings with military personnel, including soldiers of the newly formed 13th Guards Rifle Division, headed by Major General Alexander Rodimtsev. The story deeply impressed the readers and caused a wave of peoples’ hatred towards the Nazi invaders.

The exhibition creators tried to reveal the story of the work of the famous writer, showcasing, at the same time, the background of the events. They illustrate the battle on the Volga, focusing on its beginning, reflected in They Fought for the Motherland novel, and the period of fierce street battles, in which the 13th Guards Rifle Division played an important role.

Visitors will see items from the collections and the military-historical library of the "Battle of Stalingrad" Museum-Reserve. The exposition features documents, photographs, private things, uniforms and equipment of participants in the Battle of Stalingrad, including soldiers of the 13th Guards Rifle Division. It comprises collections of works by Mikhail Sholokhov and a copy of the Pravda newspaper with the publication of the Science of Hate. The exhibition also presents weapons from the Mikhail Sholokhov State Museum-Reserve.