Baba Yaga - the witch from Slavic folklore

Who is Baba Yaga?

Baba Yaga is a well-known witch from Slavic folklore, very popular in countries like Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. This enigmatic witch, who has both good and evil sides, is a central figure in many fairy tales and legends. With her eerie appearance and her house on chicken legs, Baba Yaga captures the attention of people of all ages.

Video: Baba Yaga: The Ancient Origins of the Famous ‘Witch’ | Monstrum

Baba Yaga - the witch from Slavic folklore

Who is Baba Yaga?

Baba Yaga is a well-known witch from Slavic folklore, very popular in countries like Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. This enigmatic witch, who has both good and evil sides, is a central figure in many fairy tales and legends. With her eerie appearance and her house on chicken legs, Baba Yaga captures the attention of people of all ages.

The different facets of Baba Yaga

The stories surrounding Baba Yaga are diverse and often show different aspects of her character. In some tales, she is a helpful and wise woman who gives advice to lost children or needy people. In other stories, however, she is portrayed as a dangerous and evil witch who kidnaps or even eats children.

Famous fairy tales featuring Baba Yaga

Some of the most famous fairy tales involving Baba Yaga come from various Slavic countries:

"Vasilisa the Beautiful" (Russia)

In this fairy tale, Baba Yaga helps young Vasilisa on her quest for fire to save her stepmother and stepsisters.

"Ivan Tsarevich and the Gray Wolf" (Russia)

Baba Yaga is a supporting character in this story, encountering the protagonist Ivan while he is searching for the firebird.

"The Bone Rider" (Poland)

In this Polish legend, Baba Yaga is a central figure who helps a young man named Skuba fulfill his destiny and become a hero.

"The Snake and the Princess" (Ukraine)

In this Ukrainian fairy tale, Baba Yaga helps a prince save his beloved princess who is held captive by an evil snake.