Description
CHRISTMAS
A Short History from Solstice to Santa
by Andy Thomas
This sumptuously illustrated, insightful and entertaining full colour hardback uncovers the fascinating background to the biggest festive season. From ancient ceremonies and Victorian rituals, to raucous festivals and Christmas dinner traditions, the time around the solstice has long been an opportunity for people to come together and rejoice.
Despite a Puritan ban in the 1600s and all the modern commercialisation, Christmas has survived and this book shows why it still holds meaning for us today, revealing the fuller story behind the merriment.
*
REVIEWS:
“‘Christmas: A Short History from Solstice to Santa reveals that the impulse for a winter solstice celebration is just about as old as humanity itself. No matter what form it takes, people tend to find a way to come together to splurge a little and ward off the encroaching darkness … They’re all here, in a parade of Christmas cheer that spans millennia. In the end, Thomas has a reassuring message: however you do your holidays, don’t worry that you’re doing it wrong. Christmas can be what you want it to be, wherever you are, and whether your celebration is grand or modest.” (The Tangenital)
CONTENTS:
Preface
Introduction
1 – Ancient Christmas
2 – The Beginnings of Christmas
3 – Christmas Under Threat
4 – The Season’s Return
5 – The Victorian Revival
6 – Santa Claus
7 – The Modern Christmas
Further Reading
About the Author
Index
Acknowledgements
