At Santa's side you will sometimes find his evil companion, Krampus, who finds children and punishes them if they have been bad. But who really is this monster that is chasing you during Krampusnacht.
When we think of Christmas, images of a jolly Santa Claus, reindeer and brightly wrapped gifts come to mind. The family gathers for meals by the Christmas tree and there is a merry atmosphere. But hidden in the festive atmosphere of December lies a darker, more sinister figure from Alpine folklore: the Krampus. This half-goat, half-demon creature is said to haunt the Christmas season, which in some parts of Europe begins in early December, creating a chilling contrast to the elated celebrations.
Krampus origins from the European Alps
The origins of the Krampus date back to pre-Christian Alpine traditions extending across many European countries, where it was believed to be a pagan creature associated with winter and inspired by the mythological creature Perchten or Straggele. The Krampus tradition was often cultivated mainly in Austria, Hungary and Germany, but there are also cases in neighboring Alpine countries.
Krampus is believed to come from the Bavarian: krampn, meaning “dead”, “rotten”, or from the German: kramp/krampen, meaning “claw”. Where is he from? Some say he is the son of Hel in Norse mythology, popularized by the American artist, and also shares some characteristics with satyrs and fauns from Greek mythology. Krampus is usually depicted with long, curved horns, a hanging tongue, and a body covered with fur. Chains and bells often hang from his body, symbolizing the binding of the Devil by the Christian Church.
As Christianity spread across Europe, Krampus was incorporated into Christian traditions, particularly as a counterpart to Santa Claus, and it was there that his popularity and tradition began. Perhaps it lost a bit of its pagan touch like a frying pan-like creature and transformed into something more diabolical.
While Santa Claus rewards good children with gifts, Krampus punishes the naughty ones by beating them with a stick, stuffing them in a bag and taking them away. Something like Saint's helper. Nicholas. This duality embodies the balance between reward and punishment, good and evil, that permeates much of folklore.
Krampus Night: Krampusnacht
On the night of December 5, known as Krampusnacht or Krampus Night, the demon appears to roam the streets. In cities in Austria, Germany and other parts of Europe, men dress up as Krampus and take part in parades known as Krampuslauf or Krampus Run. During these events, costumed characters terrorize viewers with their ghastly appearances and hilarious yet disturbing antics.
This is based on an elderly legend about adolescent men using cowbells and sticks to chase away winter spirits.
According to legend, Krampus carries a bundle of birch sticks with which he can beat naughty children, and a bag or basket on his back to drive away those he considers particularly evil. The threat of being caught by Krampus is intended to encourage good behavior in children and serve as a murky reminder of the consequences of transgressions.
Although the tradition began to revive again, it was not always like this. After World War I, the Krampus tradition began to be banned and for a time it almost completely disappeared.
Modern Krampus
In recent years, Krampus has grown in popularity, entering mainstream culture. Why? Is this a way for Europeans to connect more with their pagan roots? Perhaps because up-to-date society is increasingly moving away from its classic Christian and religious connotations? Perhaps he has looked more like a devil than a goat over the years, especially in popular culture.
Horror films, books and television shows introduced Krampus to up-to-date audiences, solidifying his role as a murky counterweight to holiday cheer. While many still celebrate Krampusnacht with classic parades and celebrations, the legend of Krampus has also sparked a fascination with the more macabre aspects of the holiday season.
Back to the elderly Christmas days
Krampus clearly reminds us that Christmas is not only a time of joy and generosity. His haunting presence and the incredible stories that surround him add complexity to the holiday season, combining archaic folklore with up-to-date traditions.
Whether seen as a cautionary figure or a symbol of the darker side of human nature, Krampus continues to captivate and terrify, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas is never taken for granted. It is said that to tranquil him down, you should offer him some schnapps. As the night of Krampusnacht approaches, remember to be on your best behavior because you never know when the demon of Christmas might visit you.
Reference:
Who is Krampus? Santa's spooky Christmas counterpart explained
The origin of Krampus, a European bad turn towards Santa Claus | Smithsonian
Image Source: Pixabay.com
