Ivan the Fool is no fool: blogger Irina Skugar defended the beloved fairy-tale hero at the literary club

Ivan the Fool in Russian fairy tales is increasingly seen not as a comical simpleton, but as a hero of trust, sincerity and inner transformation. At a meeting of the Literary Club "What to Read?!" at the National Centre RUSSIA, literary blogger, philologist and writer Irina Skugar explained why this character continues to resonate with modern readers.

According to the expert, Ivan triumphs in fairy tales not through cunning or strength, but through his ability to reach understanding with others, remain genuine and embrace change along the way.

"I think characters like Ivan possess one essential quality — they know how to connect with people. They are sincere and kind, and that is precisely what appeals to modern readers. Today, we no longer see Ivan the Fool as simply a foolish man: his 'foolishness' is understood instead as innocence and openness. He is an exceptionally honest character who is not afraid to make mistakes and never tries to be someone he is not. At the beginning of the story, everyone considers him a fool, but by the end he has become a completely different person. He overcomes trials, gains experience and grows from within. It is this journey of transformation that continues to matter to audiences today," said Irina Skugar.

She added that this is exactly why Ivan's story feels so relevant today: he doubts himself, stumbles, learns to trust both himself and the world around him, and ultimately becomes a true hero precisely through his vulnerability and openness.