Donor (Narrative Function)
In Propp's morphology, the character who provides the hero with a magical agent or essential knowledge needed to complete their quest.
The Donor is one of Vladimir Propp's seven character roles in fairy tale structure. The Donor tests the hero (often through a question, task, or act of courtesy) and, upon the hero's success, provides a magical object, animal helper, or crucial information. Examples include the old woman who gives Vasilisa a magical skull with burning eyes, the fisherman who catches a magical golden fish, and the woodland spirit who offers a choice of magical gifts. The Donor function can be filled by various character types: wise old men, magical animals, supernatural beings, or even the dead. The donor's test often reveals the hero's moral character.