In a kingdom, a Tsar and his daughter, Márya Tsarévna, face the malice of a witch, the Tsar's second wife. The witch, envious of Márya, sends her to the heath with a dun cow, providing only a dry crust for sustenance. However, the cow possesses magical properties, allowing Márya to transform and enjoy a life of luxury during the day, while returning to her shabby state at night. The witch, suspicious of Márya's secret, sends her three daughters to spy on her. The first two daughters fail to uncover the truth, as Márya lulls them to sleep with a spell. The third daughter, however, remains awake and witnesses Márya's transformation and feasting. The witch orders the dun cow to be killed, but Márya manages to obtain a small piece of it, which she plants, resulting in a bush that bears sweet berries. A prince, Iván Tsarévich, seeks a bride and declares that he will marry the maiden who brings him the berries. The witch's daughters attempt to gather the berries but are thwarted by the protective birds. Ultimately, Márya Tsarévna succeeds with the birds' assistance and wins Iván's heart. After their marriage, Márya gives birth to a son. The witch, seeking revenge, transforms Márya into a goose and disguises her eldest daughter as Iván's wife. The old man caring for the child discovers the truth when he hears the goose lamenting her fate. He takes the child to the field, where the goose reveals her identity. Iván Tsarévich, following the old man, witnesses the transformation and captures Márya. She evades him by changing into various forms, but he ultimately breaks the spell by destroying her spindle. Restored to her true form, they return home. The witch's daughter attempts to claim Iván, but he challenges the nobles to decide who should be his wife. The witch's daughter tries to leap to the door, but Márya clings on. Iván shoots the witch's daughter, ensuring a happy life with Márya Tsarévna.
By Alexander Nikolayevich Afanasyev · First published 1823 · Genre: Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Folklore