A Visual History of Christmas

By Darren Shupe

A Visual History of Christmas follows the evolution of Christmas traditions from ancient times to modern days. From the sacred plants of the pagans that developed into decorations of Christian homes, to Christmas hymns and carols, to the creation of European Christmas markets, to the beginning of Saint Nicholas and his eventual transformation into Santa Claus, and finally to the celebration of Christmas Day itself, A Visual History Of Christmas takes the reader on a tour of Christmas history that begins in the middle east and journeys to Europe, and to North America. Each chapter begins with a concise historical overview, followed by vintage artwork. Chapter One: The Plants of Christmas - The plants that the Romans, Egyptians, Celts, and other cultures kept sacred are discussed, and how they influenced Christian Germanic culture to employ Yule logs and trees at Christmas. 18th and 19th century illustrations follow. Chapter Two: The Oldest Christmas Carols - The origins of hymns and carols with vintage lyrics guides you through the history of vintage Christmas music. This chapter includes a few illustrations from 19th century caroling. Chapter Three: The Christmas Markets - The history of European Christmas markets gives a view of centuries of Christmas commerce and celebration. A few vintage illustrations of Christmas markets are included. Chapter Four: The Gift-Givers - The earliest gift-givers, such as the Magi, that preceded Saint Nicholas, are the starting point in the history of gift-giving in folklore. From the real historical Saint Nicholas, who transforms into Father Christmas, and then into Santa Claus, gift-giving has a long history spanning thousands of years. Vintage artwork from the 1600s to the early 20th century shows the progression from Father Christmas to Santa of the 20th century. The 1821 illustration of Santa shown is the first known image of Santa Claus. Then illustrations of the mid 1800s show Santa as an elf like man. The 1860s images of Santa are the beginning of the modern day gift bearer. Included: A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore from 1823, a version of The Snow Maiden, Yes, Virginia There is A Santa Claus. Chapter Five: Highlights and History of The Christmas Season - The Christian observance of Christmas Day wasn't always December 25th and how it came to be this date is detailed as well as feasts of medieval kings on this day. Paintings of the Annunciation and the nativity as well as old black and white photos of The Church of The Nativity, and the first Christmas cards are just some of the images that appear in this chapter. Also included: A CHRISTMAS DREAM, AND HOW IT CAME TRUE by Louisa May Alcott, THE SNOW MAN by Hans Christian Andersen, The BELLS by Edgar Allen Poe, CHRISTMAS EVE by Alfred Tennyson.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1708701087
• ISBN13: 9781708701086
• Release Date: November 2019
• Publisher: Independently published
• Length: 379 Pages
• Weight: 2.38 lbs.
• Dimensions: 11.0" x 0.9" x 8.5"