Czech/Russian folklore

[Mila Saskova-Pierce]

Does anybody have an answer to this questoin?  Thank you.   Mila

From: "Petr Chudoba" <pchudoba at rochester.rr.com> and Mila Saskova-Pierce
To: <mzs at unlserve.unl.edu>
Subject: Question on historical Christmas characters
Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2000 18:20:32 -0500
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Status:

I'm preparing everything for my Christmas party now and was wondering if you
could explain something to me. I'm making some of the historical characters
into a contest. I provide the costumes and the instructions; they have to
play out the parts. Each one will get a prize for their efforts and a grand
prize for the best one.

Svaty Mikulas, Cert and the angel I can explain. I can sort of explain Svata
Barbora  and Svata Lucie (although I can't find the logic since they're
nothing like the real saints).

But what am I to do with Peruchta, Ometacka and Starenka? Peruchta and
Ometacka have no explanations of who they are.

Starenka - is it the same explanation as in Russia?

In Russia, another old woman delivered gifts on Epiphany Eve. When the Three
Kings asked Staraya Babuska which road led to Bethlehem, she purposely gave
wrong directions. After they left, she regretted her deception, but it was
too late to stop them. In repentance for her selfishness, Staraya Babuska
shouldered her broom and set out for Bethlehem. Alone, she lost her way and
so she searches for the Child forever.

For years, she journeyed through Russia knocking at each door with her
staff, entering and holding a candle close to each child's face as he or she
lay sleeping. She left presents for the little children under their pillows
and sadly wandered on forever, hoping that one of these children would be
the Baby Jesus.

Thoughts?

Many thanks!

Petr Chudoba
54-2 Lake Vista Court
Rochester, NY 14612-5321
pchudoba at rochester.rr.com

Dr. Mila Saskova-Pierce
University of Nebraska
1133 Oldfather Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588-0315
Tel:  (402) 472 1336

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