Baghra
A Shadow Summoner and the Darkling's mother, whose tough instruction hides a desperate plan to stop her son.
Baghra is a Shadow Summoner who is introduced as a tough instructor to Alina at the Little Palace. She reveals herself to be the Darkling's mother, who intentionally conceived and raised him with the intention of making him powerful. She fears he has gone too far and attempts to intervene by encouraging Alina to run away, but is punished by her own son. She kills herself midway through the third book to stop her son's forces, which leaves him heartbroken and grieving.
- Role
- Shadow Summoner
- Specialty
- Summoning darkness
Lore & Background
Baghra appears in the original trilogy and is portrayed at a younger age in The Demon in the Wood. She is also the mother of Ulla, who appears in the short story 'When Water Sang Fire'. In the Netflix series, she is played by Zoë Wanamaker.
In Their Own Story
Baghra is introduced as a tough instructor to Alina at the Little Palace. She reveals herself to be the Darkling's mother, who intentionally conceived and raised him with the intention of making him powerful. She fears he has gone too far and attempts to intervene by encouraging Alina to run away, but is punished by her own son. She kills herself midway through the third book to stop her son's forces, which leaves him heartbroken and grieving.
Reader's Guide
Baghra is a Shadow Summoner. She is the mother of the Darkling and of Ulla. She appears in the original trilogy and in The Demon in the Wood. In the Netflix series, she is played by Zoë Wanamaker.
Did You Know?
- Baghra is the mother of both the Darkling and Ulla, who appears in the short story 'When Water Sang Fire'.
- She intentionally conceived and raised the Darkling with the intention of making him powerful.
- She kills herself midway through the third book to stop her son's forces.
- Baghra is portrayed at a younger age in the short prequel 'The Demon in the Wood'.
- In the Netflix series, she is played by Zoë Wanamaker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Baghra and what is her role in the Grishaverse?
Baghra is a formidable Heartrender who serves as one of the most powerful Grisha in Ravkan history. Originally a member of the secretive Small Group, she later becomes a reluctant guide to Alina Starkov after her time mentoring General Kirigan.
What specific powers does Baghra possess?
As a Heartrender, she possesses the lethal ability to manipulate human cardiac function with precise somatic control. This power allows her to induce heart failure or accelerate beats instantly, making her nearly invincible in close-quarters conflict.
How does Baghra's story end in the books?
Throughout the Shadow and Bone trilogy, Baghra remains alive despite her advanced age and dangerous enemies. She ultimately aids in the final confrontation against General Kirigan before surviving to see a new era for Ravka.
Why is Baghra considered an important character?
Her significance stems from her role in shaping two major figures, having mentored both General Kirigan and Alina Starkov during pivotal moments. Baghra embodies the ruthless pragmatism required to wield Grisha power effectively against overwhelming odds.
Is Baghra a hero or a villain?
Baghra operates in a moral gray area, prioritizing survival and the greater good over traditional notions of kindness. While she commits ruthless acts to protect her interests or students, she ultimately aligns herself with those who oppose tyranny.
More in Characters & Grisha
Elsewhere in the Grishaverse universe
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