Mother of the Forest

‘He could see deep through the ground as the oak’s roots turned into fire springs, running through the earth and spreading everywhere, reaching out to other roots. All this glowing, blazing sap streamed upwards to the oak’s trunk, appearing to nourish the old woman trapped inside.’ — ‘Hailbringer: A Romanian Folktale’, pg. 152 (Paperback Edition, Revised)

‘Muma Pădurii’ (Mother of the Forest) is a fascinating and recurring character in Romanian folktales. Widely regarded as a minor deity within the Romanian folk pantheon, she is a creature both revered and feared. Known by other names such as Baba Cloanța and Baba Hârca—likely influenced by the Slavic Baba Yaga—Muma Pădurii embodies the untamed spirit of the woods.

Traditionally, Muma is depicted as a malevolent spirit antagonistic to the hero. She is portrayed as an old, evil, and ugly woman living alone deep within the forests. Earlier legends suggest she was once a neutral or even benevolent figure, occasionally assisting those who crossed her path. Some tales recount how Muma would emerge from the forest, howling at the moon and visiting nearby villages to ask for butter and a comb for her hair. Speaking more than three words in her presence was said to result in losing one’s voice, yet those who aided her could have their wishes granted.

Romania has always been deeply connected to its woodlands. Throughout history, ancient forests and mountains have served as natural defenses against enemies, embedding divinity and mystique into these landscapes. Romanian folklore is rich with woodland deities such as ‘Fata Pădurii’ (Forest Maiden), ‘Moșul Codrului’ (Father Forest), ‘Ciuma Pădurii’ (Forest Plague), and ‘Păduroiul’ (Forest King), with Muma Pădurii standing out among them.

In many stories, Muma is portrayed as a grieving mother mourning her sons—the trees—that have been felled and burned. This sorrowful, maternal aspect is particularly evident in a tale where her daughter, the Forest Maiden, is killed and cooked by the ‘Dark Man’ (Omul Negru). The brutal loss of her only daughter drives Muma to madness, transforming her from a neutral entity into one driven by vengeance rather than inherent malevolence.

This last legend forms the foundation for my portrayal of Muma Pădurii in my book.