The memorization of literature in the form of literary museums: Experience of publishing the encyclopedia “Literary Museums of Russia”

Abstract

The article introduces readers to the results of the project completed in 2024 by the Vladimir I. Dahl State Museum of the History of Russian Literature and the Association of Literary Museums to create an encyclopedia dedicated to a specific profile group. Its main stages, forms of interaction with the museum and scientific communities, and conceptual foundations are considered. The high quality of work at all stages of publication preparation (starting with the compilation of the concept and dictionary of the encyclopaedia), the effectiveness of the working group’s interaction with the authors, field coordinators, and consultants were noted. It is stated that due to this, the encyclopedia records the general totality of Russian literary museums, museum-type institutions, proto-museum forms — both existing and no longer existing. As part of the encyclopaedia: articles about specific monographic (dedicated to certain writers) museums — and groups of such museums; about specific museums of the history of literature — and analytical articles; articles about subgroups of museums where literary and other components are combined; articles about types, groups of museums distinguished by various characteristics. Literary museums are shown not only in their being in the outside world, but also from within (what they store, how the stored is organized and fixed, how they work with it). Since full-fledged museum activity is impossible without relying on the science of the museum, the fundamental article “Museology”, articles on its basic concepts and disciplines of its circle are given. Blocks of articles on the subjects of the Russian Federation and biographical articles are significant. The research gaps identified during the preparation of the publication are indicated. It is noted that significant progress has been made in the study of the process of memorization of literature in the form of literary museums.