Drowning of Morena - Czechoslovak Folklore

Morena (Slovak), also known as Morana (Czech), holds a significant place in Slavic mythology. She embodies the harsh aspects of nature, and the inevitability of death yet is closely intertwined with the cycles of nature and renewal.

Morena is often depicted as a frightening hag or crone. However, in some legends, she appears as a beautiful young woman to those who do not fear her.

Origin and Evolution

Goddess of Winter and Death: Morena is often associated with death, winter, and the end of the natural life cycle. Her presence is felt in the barren landscapes of winter and the dying of the old year.

Transformation from Life to Death: Initially, Morena may have been worshipped as a fertility or renewal goddess, but over time, she became associated with death.

Cultural Impact and Modern Celebrations

Seasonal Celebrations: The rituals surrounding Morena are deeply embedded in the seasonal festivals of Slavic communities, marking the end of winter and the onset of spring. These practices, although varying from one region to another, often occur around the time of the vernal equinox.

Effigies and Rituals: The rituals related to Morena have a symbolic significance for the community. These rituals typically involve making and destroying effigies representing Morena, which is a way of getting rid of the harsh winter and welcoming the arrival of spring. These poppets are constructed using straw and dressed in women's clothing. They are then either burned or drowned, signifying the death of Morena and the earth’s rebirth.

Symbol of Renewal: Despite the fearsome associations with Morena, she plays a crucial role in life, death, and rebirth. The destruction of her effigy symbolizes the defeat of death and signifies the rejuvenation of life, fertility, and the awakening of the earth.

The Drowning of Morena: March 17, 2024

The ritual, known as ‘Drowning Morena,’ is traditionally held two weeks before Easter to drive away winter and allow spring, personified by Vesna, to return. This ritual varies across other Slavic regions, with Morena's effigy, representing winter's end, either drowned in a river or burned. 

This occurs during ‘Deadly Sunday,’ often coinciding with the spring equinox. On this day, villagers, especially young girls, parade the effigy to a river, singing folk songs and carrying evergreen twigs, to dispose of it, ideally from a high place like a bridge or rock. This act symbolizes the community's cleansing from winter's harshness, welcoming the rebirth of spring.

The effigy of Morena for the ritual is typically made of straw and wrapped in rough white cloth, adorned with a necklace of eggshells. The appearance of the effigy can vary from a young bride to an old hag, and her attire may range from a wedding dress to a traditional embroidered dress, known as a kroj. This variation reflects local traditions and interpretations of Morena's symbolism.