Step into Dostoevsky's World in Shanghai

Russian literature fans can now take a closer look at the life and works of Fyodor Dostoevsky in Shanghai.

The "Dostoevsky's World: Stop Reading Means Stop Thinking" is running on the fifth floor of the Museum of China Press and Publication, presenting 157 physical exhibits along with numerous digital ones, including Dostoevsky's manuscripts, rare versions of his works, original illustrations and his personal belongings.

The exhibits come from two Russian museums: the F. M. Dostoyevsky Literary Memorial Museum and the All-Russian Museum of A.S. Pushkin. Many of them are being exhibited outside Russia for the first time.

The design of the exhibition hall also takes inspiration from the museums, bringing a strong Russian sense to Shanghai, using different colors to guide visitors through five stages of Dostoevsky's life.

The "green" section introduces his childhood and youth, while "gray" reflects the turning point of his life, the years in exile. "Dark blue" represents his renewed literary career, when he began writing again with a deeper, more mature voice.

"Red" dominates the section dedicated to Dostoevsky's major works, giving it a dramatic intensity. In contrast, the final section, "The Immortality of the Soul," opens into a white-walled space with film posters adapted from his novels and an interactive quote-sticker area.

One highlight is a collection of manuscripts related to Dostoevsky's best-known works, including "Crime and Punishment," "The Idiot," "Demons," "The Adolescent" and "The Brothers Karamazov." The pages still show his revisions, crossed-out lines and quick sketches, giving visitors a glimpse into how he developed his ideas.

Another highlight is a special interactive photo spot created for the 160th anniversary of the publication of "Crime and Punishment." Using light and shadow, the installation is inspired by one of the novel's most tense moments, when Raskolnikov, the novel's protagonist, hides behind a door after committing the crime.

Visitors can stand "behind the door" and face silhouettes of different characters, stepping into the perspectives and emotions of the story.

Kate Koshchienko, a visitor from Russia, came to the exhibition with her mother Helen and younger sister Mariya two days after arriving in Shanghai. She said it was a special experience to see a Dostoevsky exhibition in the city.

"In Russia, we also have many exhibitions about Dostoevsky, but it is still interesting for us to come to Shanghai and see a Dostoevsky exhibition here," Kate said.

She revealed that she has read three of Dostoevsky's most famous works. In Russia, she added, Dostoevsky is an important writer whose works are widely studied at school.

Kate said the family was drawn to the exhibition because Dostoevsky is a Russian author.

"As Russian people, we feel a deep connection to him. It is really good that Shanghai has cultural activities like this."

Near the exit, visitors can take home literary quote stickers related to Dostoevsky's works. Visitors can also buy themed souvenirs featuring Dostoevsky's quotes and image, and collect special exhibition stamps at the museum.

If you go:

Date: Through September 13 (closed on Mondays), 9am-5pm (last entry at 4:30pm)

Tickets: Free

Venue: 5/F, Museum of China Press and Publication 中国近现代新闻出版博物馆5楼

Address: 3678 Zhoujiazui Rd, Yangpu District

杨浦区周家嘴路3678号