Christmas has long been a celebration of delight, with a joyful Santa Claus who rewards presents to all the good boys and girls throughout the world. On the other hand, children who have stumbled upon the naughty list are given a lump of coal in their stockings. However, many years ago, this was not the case. Children would receive a special visit from what some say is Santa’s devilish companion. This companion’s name was Krampus.
The legend of Krampus dates back centuries and is believed to have originated in Germany during the 12th century. The name Krampus comes from the Old High German word “krampen,” which means claw. This is somewhat fitting to this creature as its appearance is a half-goat, half-demon monster with long, sharp claws that are used to snatch away misbehaving children. According to the tales, Krampus is the son of Hel, the Norse god of the underworld.
Krampus is part of pagan rituals for the winter solstice. With the spread of Christianity going on throughout Europe during this time, Krampus became associated with Christmas, in spite of efforts by the Catholic church which wanted to ban him. According to Alpine folklore, beginning December 5th, children would start to hear rumors of a dark-haired beast containing horns and fangs. He is said to be carrying a bundle of birch sticks. Krampus would enter the towns, lashing his chains and bells. This evening is called Krampusnacht or Krampus Night. While the wonderful St. Nicholas rewards nice children by leaving presents under their tree, Krampus swats those who have been naughty with his sticks and branches. In some stories, he said to put the children in a basket and eat or take them back to the underworld with him. On December 6th, St. Nicholas Day, children are either awakened by presents in their boots or bandages for their unfortunate injuries.
As we return to the 21st century, many Alpine countries continue to honor Krampus with festivities. Like Krampus himself, the celebration is far from sweet. Festivities involving the beast include an event called Krampuslauf or Krampus Run. This activity takes place at night and involves townsmen dressed like the creature with furry costumes, demonic masks, spiraling horns, and whips parading through the streets. Some marches even include acrobats doing flips and cartwheels. Some Krampuses are even seen juggling torches and flicking their whips at bystanders. They chase not only the children but the adults spectating! You can also find Krampus greeting cards called krampuskarten. On these cards, you will often see a depiction of Krampus sneaking up on a soon-to-be punished child. These cards commonly end with “Greetings from Krampus!”
In recent years, the legend of Krampus has brought its popularity to the United States. Krampus festivals have been held in major cities like Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and New York City. Even in Ohio, you can find a Krampus-themed haunted house located in Columbus. Krampus’s new rise to fame in the States is partially relevant to movies. If you type Krampus into the search bar, you will find numerous Krampus-themed horror movies. The very reason how I learned about this brute is because of the 2015 film “Krampus.” The movie took the folklore figure and brought it into mainstream American media.
Whether or not you choose to celebrate the dark side of the holiday, there is no doubt that Krampus’ legend is a celebration of ancient culture and will live on forever. So, as you enjoy this holiday season, just remember what could happen if you decide to cause a little trouble!
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