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Tales -- Russia Books
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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.
P. (Petr) Polevoi
Russian Fairy Tales from the Skazki of Polevoi
"Russian Fairy Tales from the Skazki of Polevoi" by P. Polevoi is a collection of traditional folk tales likely compiled in the late 19th century. This anthology features a variety of enchanting stories drawn from Russian folklore, showcasing themes of adventure, morality, and the triumph of cleverness over brute strength. The tales within this collection are rich with cultural significance, revealing a unique tapestry of Russian heritage and storytelling. The opening of this collection introduces us to "The Golden Mountain," where a merchant's son, having squandered his wealth, takes a laborer's job with a wealthy merchant. As they embark on a journey to a fabled mountain, the story foreshadows themes of greed and fate, demonstrating the consequences of the merchant's deceit. The narrative quickly builds suspense as the young laborer faces treacherous circumstances, including betrayal and a subsequent test of his wit and resourcefulness. The blend of fantasy elements and moral lessons in this tale sets the tone for the rest of the collection, inviting readers into a magical and moralistic world.
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.
Frederick Whishaw
The Romance of the Woods
"The Romance of the Woods" by Frederick Whishaw is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores themes of nature, hunting, and human reflection through the experiences of the narrator, intertwined with vivid descriptions of the Russian wilderness. The main character experiences a dream that leads him to reflect on his past and his yearning for a peaceful existence in nature, set against the stunning backdrop of Erinofka and other enchanting locales. At the start of the novel, the narrator recounts a vivid dream where he learns that his spiritual essence can choose a place to dwell among nature after death. He contemplates various locations but ultimately picks Erinofka, a place steeped in personal memories and natural beauty. The narrative then shifts to the character’s real-life experiences with a friend named Jemmie as they embark on a shooting expedition on the moors, resulting in a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and contemplation about nature's beauty and the ethics of hunting. The opening section deftly establishes the connection between the protagonist’s dreams and his pursuit of happiness in nature, setting the tone for the adventures to come.
Vasilii Ivanovich Nemirovich-Danchenko
Peasant Tales of Russia
"Peasant Tales of Russia" by Vasilii Ivanovich Nemirovich-Danchenko is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the lives and experiences of Russian peasants, capturing their struggles, beliefs, and social dynamics through rich storytelling and vivid characters. One of the central figures introduced in the opening story is old Ivan, a miner whose life is intertwined with both the burdens of his labor and his profound, mystical experiences within the darkness of the mine. At the start of the collection, the narrative introduces a group of miners standing at the entrance of the Voskressensky mine, led by the aged Ivan. The atmospheric descriptions paint a picture of dreariness, as tension builds around Ivan's precarious journey down into the mine, where he recalls significant moments from his childhood there. The story follows his reflections on life, loss, and faith, especially his early encounters with death and the imaginary presence of Jesus within the mine's dark depths. This poignant opening sets the stage for an exploration of themes such as mortality, spirituality, and the connection between humans and the earth, foreshadowing the significant experiences that await in the tales to follow.
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The Russian Garland, Being Russian Folk Tales
"The Russian Garland, Being Russian Folk Tales" by Steele and Rosciszewski is a collection of translated folk tales drawn from peasant chap-books, originally compiled in Moscow around the early 19th century. This anthology showcases various narratives rich in folklore, heroic quests, and moral lessons that capture the essence of Russian cultural heritage. Central characters include enchanted princes, cunning animals, and brave heroes who embark on transformative journeys, often facing trials against whimsical foes. The opening of this folk tale collection introduces the story of Lyubim Tsarevich, the youngest son of Tsar Elidarovich and Tsarina Militissa Ibrahimovna. The narrative begins with Lyubim's determination to find his missing elder brothers who had set out in search of adventure. After convincing his parents to let him travel, he encounters an old woman who reveals the secrets of a forbidden meadow where he discovers a powerful horse and armor. Upon launching into his adventure, Lyubim decides to choose the perilous left road leading to a Winged Wolf, demonstrating his resolve and bravery, which set the tone for his forthcoming challenges. As the adventure unfolds, themes of loyalty, courage, and the quest for love prominently feature, engaging readers with a sense of wonder typical of folklore.
George Borrow
The Story of Yvashka with the Bear's Ear
"The Story of Yvashka with the Bear's Ear" by George Borrow is a translated folktale from the Russian tradition, published for private circulation in the early 20th century. This enchanting story centers around a character named Yvashka, or Jack, who possesses a distinctive bear's ear, and it delves into themes of friendship and the battle between good and evil through magical elements. The narrative is steeped in Russian folklore, particularly illustrating the mythological figure of Baba Yaga, a witch-like character known for her menacing and mischievous behaviors. The tale begins with Yvashka, who faces ostracism due to his uncontrollable strength. After being cast out by his father, he embarks on a journey where he befriends others, including Quercillo, Montano, and Moustacho. Their adventures lead them to confront Baba Yaga, who torments them. Yvashka demonstrates courage and intelligence as he manages to capture Baba Yaga and learn how to defeat her. Ultimately, after a series of challenges, Yvashka finds himself abandoned by his friends but overcomes adversity to reclaim his command over his life. The story concludes with his successful return and marriage, highlighting themes of loyalty, bravery, and the importance of companionship.
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Emelian the Fool: a tale
"Emelian the Fool: a tale" by George Borrow and Thomas James Wise is a whimsical folktale originally derived from Russian folklore, translated during the early 20th century. This narrative blends elements of humor and adventure, following the character Emelian, who is often perceived as a fool yet exhibits traits and cunning typical of Russian peasants, or mujiks. The story reflects the simplicity and complexity of village life while infusing a rich sense of fantastical elements reminiscent of similar tales like "Aladdin". The story revolves around Emelian, a simple peasant characterized by his laziness, yet endowed with the ability to wield magical commands through a pike he rescues. Enchanted by the promises of the pike, Emelian uses his commands to achieve remarkable feats without exerting himself, leading to amusing and unexpected situations. He navigates through challenges, including the king’s desire to imprison him due to misunderstandings sparked by his magical escapades. The tale culminates in Emelian's eventual triumph, where he marries the king's daughter and attains happiness, leaving readers with a sense of merriment and the idea that cleverness can thrive even in perceived foolishness.
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The Story of Tim
"The Story of Tim" by George Borrow and Thomas James Wise is a translated tale from Russian folklore, dating from the early 20th century. This book falls under the category of a folk tale, capturing a narrative about thievery and cleverness through its protagonist, Tim. The story blends humor and adventure, reflecting the traditional themes of cunning and resourcefulness found in folklore. In this tale, Tim, a sharp but simple lad, is apprenticed by his father to a pair of highwaymen. Under their tutelage, he engages in a series of thieving escapades, during which he cleverly outsmarts his mentors while trying to claim a prized cloak and a pig. Tim's intelligence and quick thinking allow him to regain the stolen pig twice, ultimately leading to a resolution where the thieves must pay him for their failed attempts to swindle him. Throughout this amusing story, Tim's resourcefulness shines, and he outmaneuvers the thieves, illustrating the timeless message of wit triumphing over brute force.
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