Christmas: A short history from solstice to santa

Andy Thomas explores the fascinating background to Christmas, including its social history, astrological associations, symbolism, Puritan ban, Victorian-era revival, gift-giving, Father Christmas, food, and traditions from around the world. He is a lecturer and author on folklore, histories, and unexplained mysteries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2019
Publisher: The Ivy Press

Christmas is one of the most celebrated festivals worldwide, with its origins dating back centuries. In his book, "Christmas: A Social History," Andy Thomas delves into the fascinating background of this festive season, covering ancient ceremonies, mythology, the gospels, and traditions from around the world.

The book begins by exploring the astrological associations that have been linked to Christmas, including the alignment of the stars on December 25th, which is believed to be the birth of Jesus Christ. Thomas also discusses the symbolism of the Nativity, which represents the birth of the baby Jesus in a manger.

Next, the book delves into the excesses of the Roman festival of Saturnalia, which was held in honor of the god Saturn and included wild parties, feasts, and gift-giving. It was during this time that the tradition of gift-giving began to spread, and it eventually became a central part of Christmas.

The Puritan ban on Christmas in the 16th century was a significant event in the history of the holiday. However, it was not long before Christmas was revived in the Victorian era, with the introduction of gift-giving and the rise of Father Christmas. The book also explores the origins and developments of Father Christmas, including the popular image of him as a jolly, red-clad man.

Furthermore, Thomas discusses the food and traditions associated with Christmas from around the world. He explores the different types of Christmas foods, such as roast turkey, Christmas pudding, and mince pies, and explains how they have evolved over time.

The book also includes a history of the stories, songs, and symbols associated with Christmas, including the popular song "Jingle Bells" and the iconic image of Santa Claus. Thomas explains how these traditions have developed and why they continue to be important to people today.

Throughout the book, Thomas is a lecturer and author on folklore, histories, and unexplained mysteries, and he has made numerous appearances on radio and TV. "Christmas: A Social History" is beautifully illustrated, and it tells the fuller story behind the sparkle and the merriment of Christmas. It shows why Christmas has survived and still has meaning for us today.

In conclusion, "Christmas: A Social History" is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about the origins and history of this festive season. It is a fascinating and entertaining journey through the social history of Christmas, and it will leave readers with a greater appreciation for the holiday and its significance.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 145 x 204 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782407805