Sunday 9 June 2019

Book Review: Russian Fairy Tales by Aleksandr Afanasyev (Folklore & Myth)

Title: Russian Fairy Tales
Author: Aleksandr Afanasyev
Publisher:
Pantheon

Publication Date: 1976 (1855)
Pages:
672
Format:
Paperback
Genre:
Folklore & Myth
Source:
Bought Copy

 


In this most comprehensive collection of classic Russian tales available in English we meet both universal fairy-tale figures—thieves and heroes, kings and peasants, beautiful damsels and terrifying witches, enchanted children and crafty animals—and such uniquely Russian characters as Koshchey the Deathless, Baba Yaga, the Swan Maiden, and the glorious Firebird. The more than 175 tales culled from a centuries-old Russian storytelling tradition by the outstanding Russian ethnographer Aleksandr Afanas’ev reveal a rich, robust world of the imagination that will fascinate readers both young and old.


Russian Fairy Tales is a delightful and comprehensive collection of stories from Russian folk tradition. I had such fun reading them--a few each day--and comparing them with tales from other European traditions. It is interesting to look at the crossover and where differences occur. A brilliant book for readers of all ages.

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