The name Kosjenka is derived from kose (hair), and indicates the little fairy’s flowing tresses.
Apart from being a simple fairy-tale, this story contains an allegorical element. Reygoch, the benevolent, simple-minded giant, is a character from Marunko, by the poet Gjorgjić, of Dubrovnik. The city of Legen, or Ledjan (which, to all intents and purposes, means “frozen”), is to be found in Croatian folk-tales and ballads.
Bridesman Sun and Bride Bridekins.
1. Mokoš (Muggish). A mighty force which, according to the beliefs of the ancient Slavs, ruled the earth, and especially in marshlands. She is mentioned in connection with the heavenly thunder god. Perun.
2. Kolede (translated by Yuletide) A winter festival celebrated at the end of December in honour of the sun, whose power once more begins to increase in those days.
3. Krijes (translated by Beltane). A festival in honour of the summer sun at the time of his greatest strength.
4. Omaja, omaha. Water which is flung from the mill-wheel. To this day peasants bathe children in this water so that evil may be turned away from them.
A Ban is a Warden of the Marches.
Neva means bride. Nevičica is the diminutive of Neva.