Baba Yaga

This piece is my take on what Baba Yaga might have looks like as a young woman (she must have not been a Baba once!)

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Baba Yaga is perhaps one of the most famous figures of Slavic folklore. She is a mysterious figure: an old woman, a witch, sometimes even a spirit of the forest. She is often connected to the natural world and the spirits that live within it. Traditionally, stories about Baba Yaga warned children to respect nature, the unseen world, and the dangers of wandering too far from home.

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Her role changes from story to story; sometimes she is frightening and cruel, kidnapping children or threatening to eat them; other times, she offers wisdom or magical help to those brave enough to seek her out. However, asking for her aid is never simple or safe. Those who approach Baba Yaga must be prepared, respectful, and pure of heart, because even when she is helping she may be dangerous!