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Baba Yaga
The witch of Slavic folklore lives in a hut that walks on chicken legs. She flies in a mortar and pestle. She may help you or eat you—her nature is unknowable. Children still fear her name.
Ancient - Present
Russia and Slavic Countries
1000000+ witnesses
Baba Yaga is one of folklore’s most complex and enduring figures.
The Legend
According to Slavic folklore:
Baba Yaga is:
- An ancient witch
- Lives in forest depths
- Neither good nor evil
- Helps some, devours others
- Tests those who seek her
Her Appearance
Described as:
- Elderly woman
- Bony legs
- Long nose
- Iron teeth
- Fearsome visage
The Hut
Her home:
- Stands on chicken legs
- Spins around
- Fence of human bones
- Skulls with glowing eyes
- No door until commanded
Her Travel
She moves by:
- Flying in a mortar
- Using pestle as rudder
- Sweeping tracks with broom
- Impossible speed
- Across the sky
Her Nature
The ambiguity:
- Helps worthy heroes
- Devours the unworthy
- Gives impossible tasks
- Rewards cleverness
- Punishes rudeness
Cultural Significance
Baba Yaga represents:
- Wild, untamed nature
- Female power
- Death and rebirth
- Initiation tests
- The unknowable