The Tale of Tsar Saltan

Brief Overview

The Tale of Tsar Saltan tells the story of three sisters, one of whom becomes the wife of Tsar Saltan. The Tsar goes off to war, and in his absence, the Tsarina gives birth to a son, Gvidon. The Tsarina's envious sisters and the wicked old woman Babarikha send a false letter to the Tsar, claiming that the Tsarina has given birth to a monster. The Tsar orders the Tsarina and the baby to be sealed in a barrel and cast into the sea. The barrel washes ashore on an island where Gvidon grows up and saves a magical Swan Princess. In gratitude, she helps him build a city. Gvidon transforms into an insect three times to fly to his father and invite him to the island. Eventually, Tsar Saltan arrives, learns the truth, and reunites with his family. The wicked sisters and Babarikha are punished.