The World Encyclopedia of Christmas

Nonfiction, Reference & Language, Reference, Encyclopedias, Religion & Spirituality, Holidays, Christmas, Christianity
Cover of the book The World Encyclopedia of Christmas by Gerry Bowler, McClelland & Stewart
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Gerry Bowler ISBN: 9781551996073
Publisher: McClelland & Stewart Publication: October 23, 2012
Imprint: McClelland & Stewart Language: English
Author: Gerry Bowler
ISBN: 9781551996073
Publisher: McClelland & Stewart
Publication: October 23, 2012
Imprint: McClelland & Stewart
Language: English

At last, a truly comprehensive look at Christmas and all of its customs with its long history around the world. The World Encyclopedia of Christmas contains articles on the history of Christmas baking, drinking, and merrymaking, and Christmas dramas, music, literature, art, and films. It includes entries on the evolution of the Christmas tree and the Christmas card, 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? Or what Freudians make of our interest in Christmas stockings and Santa’s entrance through the chimney? There are detailed accounts of Wren Boys and Star Boys, mumming and wassailing, the Feast of Fools and the origins of eggnog. And of course stories of the Nativity 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 secular history, trivia, literature, and art. This wonderful book deserves to find a home with every family that celebrates Christmas.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

At last, a truly comprehensive look at Christmas and all of its customs with its long history around the world. The World Encyclopedia of Christmas contains articles on the history of Christmas baking, drinking, and merrymaking, and Christmas dramas, music, literature, art, and films. It includes entries on the evolution of the Christmas tree and the Christmas card, 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? Or what Freudians make of our interest in Christmas stockings and Santa’s entrance through the chimney? There are detailed accounts of Wren Boys and Star Boys, mumming and wassailing, the Feast of Fools and the origins of eggnog. And of course stories of the Nativity 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 secular history, trivia, literature, and art. This wonderful book deserves to find a home with every family that celebrates Christmas.

More books from McClelland & Stewart

Cover of the book I'll See You in My Dreams by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Boys Bombs and Brussels Sprouts by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Bringing It Home by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book The Sacrifice by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Digging Up the Mountains by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book The Gifted by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book The Final Call by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Your Call Is Important To Us by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Settler Education by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Shakedown by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Beyond Crazy by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Folk by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book The Ballad of Danny Wolfe by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book White Narcissus by Gerry Bowler
Cover of the book Please Proceed to the Nearest Exit by Gerry Bowler
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy