Witchy Ways

Does your class know the legend of Baba Yaga? She’s one of the most famous witches in the world, and her story has been adapted over 400 times! As a group, take some time to learn about this famous character and introduce your students to her iconic lore.

First, read aloud a version of Baba Yaga to your class at storytime (if you can’t find one, you can access the University of Cambridge’s version of Baba Yaga and Visilia the Brave). While you read, ask your students to act out and embody the characters, including Baba Yaga!

Explain that Baba Yaga has been portrayed many different
ways in many different adaptations. Share some of the history of the Slavic character, explaining her Russian origins and where she—and characters inspired by her—shows up in contemporary culture. After you read one version of the tale, see if you can find another adaptation to explore.

Then, have students create their own versions of Baba Yaga! Ask them to take inspiration from the two versions of her story you’ve explored together and sketch out what their version of this famed witch looks like on a blank piece of paper. Then, have them physicalize her with their own mannerisms and magical powers.

Finally, put on a Baba Yaga parade for another class, complete with costumes and
music, bringing the folktale to life in your classroom!

To support this unit, use the A Study in Character Exploration Activity.