Vasilisa the Beautiful

A merchant had a beautiful daughter named Vasilisa. When she was eight years old, her mother fell terminally ill. As a final gift, she gave Vasilisa a wooden doll with instructions to feed and water her whenever she needed her help. So, when her mother died, the girl couldn't wait and began feeding the doll food and drink. The doll came to life and satisfied Vasilisa.

The father remarries – this time, the woman is wicked and cares only for her two daughters (similar to the American Cinderella). The doll helps Vasilisa carry out the many orders given to her by her wicked stepmother. When Vasilisa's father travels far away for work, the girl finds herself in even greater trouble. The stepmother sells the house and moves the family deep into the forest.

The lights in the house go out, and there are no more candles. Vasilisa is sent to gather some light. She stumbles upon Baba Yaga's hut.

Baba Yaga tells her she must earn the light and gives her instructions. The doll helps the girl complete her task when she encounters three riders on horses, each representing day, night, and sun. The doll advises the girl on how to overcome all the trials.

Baba Yaga blesses Vasilisa and gives her a lantern [shaped like a skull] made of coal. When the girl returns home, she learns that a curse has been placed on her foster family. No candles or lights will light. The embers in the skull come to life and burn down the entire house, including everyone inside, except Vasilisa. Vasilisa then buries the skull in the forest and heads for the city