According to scholar Tamara Gundorova from the Shevchenko Institute of Literature of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the myth of 'great Russian culture', which reflects the 'mystery of the Russian soul', continues to be popular among Western countries. Even with knowledge of 'imperial discourse' and 'colonization', foreign readers still believe in this myth.
Her opinion is supported by the fact that the history of Russian classical literature, especially the realism period, remains interesting abroad. Here, universities study the works of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky with great attention. Refuting perceptions of the complexity of these works, Tamara points to their popularity among contemporaries even abroad.
«If you can say that you have read Tolstoy-Dostoevsky, you are a cultured person», - noted Gundorova.
However, it is worth noting that there is a whole industry that supports this myth through opera, theater, cinema, and other forms of art. This is what makes the dissemination and strengthening of the idea of 'great Russian culture' among the general public possible.
Tamara Gundorova's commentary reveals the popularity of Russian culture among Western countries, despite the discussed theories of imperialism and colonization. The myth of 'great Russian culture' continues to live on, supported by the fascination with classical works and various forms of art.