Fairy Tale Analysis

Tsar Berendei discovers someone stealing golden apples from his garden. His youngest son, Ivan, catches the thief—a Firebird—leaving behind a glowing feather. Intrigued, the Tsar sends his sons to capture the bird. Ivan, aided by a magical Grey Wolf after losing his horse, embarks on a series of quests.

The Grey Wolf guides Ivan to the Firebird and warns him not to touch its golden cage, but Ivan disobeys and is caught. The king owning the bird demands Ivan bring him a Horse with a Golden Mane in exchange. The Wolf helps Ivan acquire the horse, warning him again not to touch its golden bridle. Ivan disobeys, is caught, and is tasked to kidnap Yelena the Fair to make amends. The Wolf kidnaps Yelena for Ivan, transforms her to deceive the king, and helps Ivan escape with all their treasures.

On the way home, Ivan’s jealous brothers kill him, steal his treasures, and threaten Yelena into silence. The Grey Wolf revives Ivan with magical water, hunts down the brothers, and ensures Ivan returns home victorious. Ivan marries Yelena, bringing happiness to his father’s kingdom.