Duel with the Serpent

Gods of different peoples reflect the traits of those who worship them. In Maria Semenova’s works, Slavic and Scandinavian gods are portrayed as majestic and powerful, bold and noble—inclined to war and hard work. They make choices and perform deeds, paving the way for their earthly children—sometimes setting a bad example, sometimes a good one. They commit mistakes and pay for them. People, for their part, are not indifferent. They don’t just obey; they also help the Gods build the world, sometimes even going against their will when conscience and honor demand it. And when Heaven and Earth are threatened, they stand alongside the Gods, protecting the universe from trouble.