Through the exploration and research in primary texts, Slavic history, and folklore theory, three main aspects of a prevalent figure in Slavic Folklore will be addressed. These three main aspects describe the life, origin, symbolism and the roles of Baba Yaga. Primarily, this research will focus on the etymology of Baba Yaga and her main characteristics. In addition, the exploration will include the comparison of Baba Yaga as either good or evil. Lastly, there will be an in-depth look at Baba Yaga’s roles in her marginal position between both the world of living and the otherworld. With this research will come answers about a figure in Slavic folklore that has been greatly speculated about. Still, there isn’t a concrete definition of Baba Yaga but through research and the Slavic Folklore, Baba Yaga can be primarily viewed through the phases of the moon, as good or evil, a villan, a donor or even as a mother figure.
By Dara Goldman and Tyler Redmond