From the Abbot of Misrule (in medieval Scotland) to Zwarte Piet (in modern Holland), this is a truly comprehensive look at Christmas and all of its customs around the world. Like all the best encyclopedias, this extraordinary book is a reader's paradise, with more than a thousand fascinating and entertaining entries and close to 200 illustrations in black and white and full color.The World Encyclopedia of Christmas contains articles on the history of Christmas baking, drinking, and merry-making, and Christmas dramas, music, literature, art, and films. It includes entries on the evolution of the Christmas tree and the Christmas card, on gift-giving and decoration of church and home. There are profiles of the many gift-bringers, from Santa Claus to Babouschka, and miraculous tales of the numerous saints associated with the season. And there are histories of seasonal celebrations and folk customs around the world, from the United States to Japan, from Egypt to Iceland.
Who, for example, knew the links between the Punch and Judy show and Christmas? That the medieval Paradise tree hung with tempting apples was the forerunner of the Christmas tree? About the Peerie Guizers, who terrorized the Shetland Islands, going door-to-door for Christmas charity? There are detailed accounts of mumming and wassailing, the Feast of Fools and the origins of eggnog. And of course stories of the Navtivity and legends of the Magi.
With beautifully illustrated accounts ranging from the pagan roots of Yuletide, through the birth of Christ, and the long and fascinating history of the festival ever since, The World Encyclopedia of Christmas is a rich and continually surprising array of religious and secularhistory, trivia, literature, and art. This wonderful book deserves to find a home with every family that celebrates Christmas.
