There aren’t too many homes that escape the plethora of decorations used at this time of year and indeed much of the excitement of the season is thanks, in part, to the degree of decoration we create and see around us and the feelings it arouses in us. The history of the different decorations is as varied as the decorations themselves. Holly & mistletoe were significant to the Druids long before Christmas festivities were started.
The Christian faith incorporated these items, claiming that the sharp holly leaves symbolized the crown of thorns Christ wore and the red berries drops of his blood, and the white mistletoe berries symbolized the purity of the Virgin Mary. The Yule Log probably dates back to the Celts bringing a large log indoors to burn for warmth and later it was believed toward of the devil. The chocolate table top variety is a modern 19th century invention!
The Christian faith incorporated these items, claiming that the sharp holly leaves symbolized the crown of thorns Christ wore and the red berries drops of his blood, and the white mistletoe berries symbolized the purity of the Virgin Mary. The Yule Log probably dates back to the Celts bringing a large log indoors to burn for warmth and later it was believed toward of the devil. The chocolate table top variety is a modern 19th century invention!
Nativity scenes are accredited to St. Francis of Assisi in1223 who wished to recreate the scene after his visit to the Holy Land. Tree decorations consisting of glass baubles and tinsel shards developed in Germany,with candles and later electric lights adding to the décor. Christmas crackers were apparently invented by Tom Smith, a baker in London in 1847, who filled his early attempts with sweets. Christmas cards are another Victorian invention and the concept to spread seasonal goodwill caught on quickly, no doubt aided and abetted by the postal systems in various countries.
No comments:
Post a Comment