Koschei the Deathless

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Koschei the Deathless

A demon of Russian folklore. This horrid monster is described as having a death's-head and a fleshless skeleton "through which is seen the black blood flowing and the yellow heart beating." Koschei is armed with an iron club, with which he knocks down all who come into his path. In spite of his ugliness he is said to be a great admirer of young girls and women. He is avaricious, hates old and young alike, particularly those who are fortunate. His dwelling is among the mountains of the Koskels and the Caucasus, where his treasure is concealed.

Sources:

Ralston, W. R. S. Russian Folk-Tales. 1873. Reprint, New York: Arno Press, 1977.