Document Type
Article
Abstract
This article examines how Russian folklore traditions have shaped cultural perceptions of female heroism. The study addresses the limited attention given to gendered aspects of heroism, particularly “female” models, which are often linked to self-sacrifice and resilience, in contrast to “male” heroism associated with physical strength and risk. As the first stage of a larger project, this research aims to introduce the issue and identify key archetypes of female heroism. Based on an analysis of A.N. Afanasyev’s collection of fairy tales, three central archetypes of active heroines are identified: the Warrior Woman (Marya Morevna), the Wise Maiden/Enchantress (Vasilisa the Beautiful), and the Initiating Woman (Nastenka from Morozko / Father Frost). The article also outlines directions for future research on how these folklore models have evolved in Russian classical literature (e.g., Tatyana Larina, Anna Karenina) and in contemporary cinema. Methodologically, the study employs comparative-typological and critical discourse analysis. Preliminary findings suggest that these archetypes continue to shape cultural representations of women, serving as mechanisms that both reinforce and challenge gender stereotypes.
DOI
10.26736/hs.2025.02.04
Recommended Citation
Subbotina, Mariia V.
(2025)
"The Influence of Russian Folklore on Perceptions of Female Heroism,"
Heroism Science: Vol. 10:
Iss.
2, Article 4.
DOI: 10.26736/hs.2025.02.04
Available at:
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/heroism-science/vol10/iss2/4