Krabat


Krabat is a character in Sorbian folklore, also dubbed the "Wendish Faust". First recorded in 1837, the character developed from an evil sorcerer into a folk hero and beneficial trickster in the course of the 19th century.

Origins

The historical nucleus of the folk tale is Johannes Schadowitz, a Croat cavalry commander, who was granted an estate in Groß Särchen near Hoyerswerda in 1691 by John George III, Elector of Saxony.

Analysis

The tale of Krabat's apprenticeship to an evil sorcerer with malefic powers can be classified, in folkloristic studies, as Aarne-Thompson-Uther ATU 325, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice".

Distribution

The folk tale is centered around the area of Lusatia, most notably the settlement of Čorny Chołmc, which today is a district of the city of Hoyerswerda, where Krabat is said to have learned his sorcerous powers.

Adaptations

The Krabat story has been adapted into several novels, notably: