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Folklore -- Russia Books
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Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore
"Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore" by W. R. S. Ralston is a collection of folk tales written in the late 19th century. This anthology presents various skazkas, or Russian folk-tales, drawing from notable collections to showcase the traditions and storytelling heritage of the Russian peasantry. The tales often feature themes of magic, morality, and the intricacies of village life, providing readers with insights into the cultural fabric of Russia. The opening of the collection sets the stage by discussing the evolution and significance of folk-tales in Russian culture. Ralston eloquently compares the folk-tale to Cinderella, emphasizing its journey from obscurity to recognition as a vital part of literary heritage. He reflects on the nature of these stories, highlighting their mythical origins and their capacity to reveal the customs, beliefs, and social dynamics of Russian life. The chapter invites readers to explore the upcoming narratives, promising a rich tapestry of enchanting tales that illuminate the mystical and moral complexities of the human experience in a distinctly Russian context.
A. N. (Aleksandr Nikolaevich) Afanas'ev
Russian Folk-Tales
"Russian Folk-Tales" by A. N. Afanas'ev is a collection of nearly 600 fairy and folktales published between 1855 and 1863. Drawing from Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian traditions, the collection includes iconic stories like "The Frog Princess," "Father Frost," and "The Firebird." Influenced by the Brothers Grimm and other European folklorists, Afanas'ev's compilation became a cornerstone of Slavic folklore scholarship. These tales of magical creatures, cunning heroes, and immortal villains later inspired Vladimir Propp's groundbreaking structural analysis of folktales.
Verra Xenophontovna Kalamatiano de Blumenthal
Folk Tales from the Russian
"Folk Tales from the Russian" by Verra Xenophontovna Kalamatiano De Blumenthal is a collection of traditional Russian folklore retold for children, likely written in the early 20th century. The book serves to preserve the rich tapestry of Russian fairy tales, legends, and folktales that depict the joys, struggles, and moral lessons of early Slavic life. Through stories featuring charming characters like the brave Tsarevitch Ivan and the enigmatic Baba Yaga, this collection seeks to introduce American children to the enchanting worldview of Russian folklore. The opening of this collection features the foreword which emphasizes the urgency to preserve vanishing folk tales in the face of modernization. The first tale introduced is "The Tsarevna Frog," where the youngest prince, Ivan Tsarevitch, must marry a frog after his arrow lands in a swamp, leading to unexpected mystical adventures involving his frog bride, who reveals a hidden beauty and wisdom. The tale unfolds as Ivan Tsarevitch grapples with his fate, navigating challenges and finding friendship and courage in the unlikeliest of circumstances. Throughout the opening, the importance of accepting one's destiny and understanding the value of love beyond appearances is poignantly illustrated.
Arthur Ransome
Old Peter's Russian Tales
"Old Peter's Russian Tales" by Arthur Ransome is a collection of Russian folk tales published in 1916. Written in the forest hut of Old Peter the forester, these stories transport readers into the world of Russian peasant folklore. Two orphaned children, Maroosia and Vanya, gather by the fireside to hear their grandfather's enchanting tales—twenty narratives including "The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship." Ransome retells these traditional stories in his own words, creating an enduring classic that bridges Russian folklore and English childhood imagination.
Arthur Ransome
The Soldier and Death A Russian Folk Tale Told in English by Arthur Ransome
"The Soldier and Death" by Arthur Ransome is a Russian folk tale retold in English, written in the early 20th century. This story explores themes of kindness, fate, and the human experience, following a soldier's journey after years of serving the Tsar and how his choices affect his life and those around him. The narrative centers around a soldier who, after generously giving away his meager rations to beggars, encounters a mysterious old man who gifts him magical items. These items give him the ability to win at cards and control other creatures, which leads him to confront devils in an empty palace. The soldier overcomes them and earns wealth, but when his son falls ill, he recalls his promise with a devil, which ultimately helps him heal his child. As the story progresses, the soldier struggles with the implications of his actions, particularly when he traps Death in a sack, leading to a world without death. However, as he realizes the consequences of an immortal world, he chooses to release Death, ultimately leaving him in a state where he has no place in both Heaven and Hell. The tale concludes with the soldier wandering the earth, symbolizing the complexities of life and death.
Valerian Viliamovich Karrik
More Russian Picture Tales
"More Russian Picture Tales" by Valerian Viliamovich Karrik is a collection of folk tales and fables written in the early 20th century. The book showcases a variety of narratives that reflect traditional Russian culture and values through storytelling. Likely intended for children and young adults, the tales combine elements of humor, morality, and animal characters that convey important lessons about life, friendship, cleverness, and the consequences of one's actions. The stories within this collection include vibrant characters such as a cock, a bear, a wolf, and a goat, each encountering various adventures driven by their peculiar situations. For instance, in "The Cock and the Bean," a cock finds himself in trouble after choking on a bean, prompting a series of requests for help that involve other animals in a humorous chain of events. Other tales like "The Hungry Wolf" and "The Peasant and the Bear" explore themes of wit against brute strength and the pitfalls of greed and deception, ultimately culminating in unexpected resolutions that reinforce moral lessons. Together, these tales offer a delightful glimpse into the imaginative world of Russian folklore, layered with thoughtful messages for readers of all ages.
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