| Abstrakt: |
This study investigates the origins of the folktale character, Baba Yaga, as related to ancient goddesses of Slavic culture and as seen through the lens of the historian on a hero's journey, questing for truths. While oral traditions are difficult to trace, comparative analysis between deities of Eastern Europe gives clues to a strong female presence that has evolved and shifted over thousands of years. Baba Yaga's first known textual record was in 1755; however, the character presented at that time is unambiguously not a new invention. By examining traditions of ancient Cucuteni-Trypillia, as well as past folklore studies and known Slavic deities, including Mati-Syra-Zemlya, Mokosh, and Morana, connections arise exhibiting not only a folklore witch who feels so strongly about right and wrong that she may eat you for supper, but also a character who still displays remnants of a history as an earth goddess, goddess of life and death, patron to women, and goddess of transformation. Baba Yaga's stories continue in the modern day, but her historical weight cannot be ignored or forgotten. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
