In his analysis of fairy tales, Vladimir Propp identified this role as the donor and listed it as one of the seven roles found in fairy tales. Before giving the hero magical support or advice, the donor may also test the hero, by questioning him, setting him tasks, or making requests of him.
In Vladimir Propp's analysis of fairy tales, this role is referred to as the source of aid and is one of seven typical roles encountered in these narratives. Before providing magical assistance or guidance to the hero, the source may also challenge the hero by posing questions, assigning tasks, or making demands.