Stories
The Tale of the Fisherman and the Fish
A poor old man sets a magical golden fish free, and it is ready to grant any wish. But the old woman's greed grows stronger and stronger, until it leads her back to a broken trough. This is a cautionary tale about kindness, ingratitude, and knowing moderation in one's wishes.
The Tale of Tsar Saltan
A magical story about Prince Gvidon, who, together with his mother, was treacherously cast into the sea, but fate brought them to a wondrous island. There, thanks to courage, kindness, and the help of a magical swan, Gvidon gains his own principality, a bride, and a meeting with his father.
The Tale of the Dead Princess
The princess falls victim to the jealousy of her wicked stepmother, who orders her killed and tricks her with a magic apple. But Prince Yelisei’s faithfulness, the help of nature, and the power of love lead to a miraculous rescue.
By the Curving Seashore Stands a Green Oak
A magical poetic journey into a world of wonders, where the learned cat tells tales, and around him come to life mermaids, wood goblins, knights, and Baba Yaga. This is the famous fairy-tale prologue, filled with images from Russian folk legends and magic.
The Tale of the Golden Cockerel
Old Tsar Dadon receives a magical golden cockerel from a wise man, who is meant to guard his kingdom from trouble. But when the tsar breaks his promise, the tale turns into a cautionary story about power, greed, and payback.
The Bridegroom
An old story in verse about Natasha, a merchant's daughter, who recognizes a dangerous villain in her bridegroom. At the wedding feast, she reveals a terrible secret and, through her courage, wins justice.
The Tale of the Priest and His Worker Balda
A веселая and instructive tale in verse about clever and strong Balda, who hires himself out to a greedy priest on unusual terms. When the priest tries to cheat his worker, Balda has to outsmart the devils and win fair payment.
The Tale of the She-Bear
An old folk tale in verse tells of a she-bear and her cubs, whom misfortune overtakes in the forest. After the tragedy, the animals gather to the bear to share his grief.
Ruslan and Ludmila
A magical poem about brave Ruslan, who sets out to rescue the abducted Ludmila from the power of the treacherous Chernomor. On his way he faces sorcerers, rivals, wonders, battles, and fairy-tale trials.
The Song of Oleg the Prophet
A poetic legend about Prince Oleg, who learns from a wizard a terrible prophecy about his fate. The story combines ancient Russian history, mysticism, and reflection on whether one can escape destiny.