The article deals with the image of the sorcerer in Russian mythological stories in terms of the different meanings of "hero". The character of the wizard bears the archaic features of a cultural hero. The courage the sorcerer demonstrates in rituals, especially in relation to his assistants, appears to be reckless, dashing courage which resembles bravery in the face of mortal danger. Attitudes towards the sorcerer have changed over time under the influence of Christianity, and he began to be perceived as a villain both in rituals and in everyday life.