Ancient Origins
What is the Winter Solstice?
The shortest day of the year when people often celebrate light
What does the word PAGAN describe?
Old religious beliefs that existed before Christianity
What were a few activities during medieval Christmas celebrations?
Feasting / music / gift-giving / caroling.
How was Santa Clause shown before the Victorian era?
Some made him as a small elf, others made him like a greek god, sometimes he was scary or strict.
What modern Christmas symbol is connected to ancient evergreen traditions?
The Christmas tree
What ancient winter festival lasted for twelve days?
Yule.
Name one Roman festival celebrated in December before Christmas existed
Saturnalia / Mithras / Sol Invictus
Why were large feasts important during Christmas in the Middle Ages?
They brought communities together and helped people celebrate during winter.
What role did artists and illustrators play in changing Santa's image?
They created drawings and stories that made Santa kind, friendly and family focused.
Why do people use lights during Christmas celebrations?
Lights come from ancient traditions of using fire and candles to push back darkness
Why did ancient people celebrate during the darkest time of the year?
To celebrate the return of light and longer days and to give people hope during winter.
Why was December 25th important to the ancient Romans?
It was connected to the pagan winter festival celebrations such as winter solstice.
What role did music play in Medieval Christmas celebrations?
Music helped people celebrate together and created joy and community.
Who was Krampus and how was he connected to Santa Claus?
Krampus was a dark, devil-like companion who punished naughty children.
What is one way Christmas became focused on the home instead of public spaces?
Celebrations moved from public streets into private homes and families.
What natural symbols were brought into homes during ancient winter celebrations?
Evergreens, holly, trees and logs.
What decision did the Christian church make about pagan traditions instead of banning them?
The church absorbed pagan traditions instead of banning them.
What is the difference between religious Christmas music and secular Christmas music?
Religious music was sung in church (often in Latin); and secular music was sung by people outside church in everyday language.
How did Victorian values change the focus of Christmas?
Christmas became more focused on family, the home and children.
How did stories, poems or illustrations help shape modern Christmas traditions?
They helped people imagine and standardize traditions and Santa's image
How did ancient solstice traditions influence modern Christmas customs?
Ancient solstice traditions became modern customs like Christmas trees, greenery, and winter celebrations.
How did blending pagan and Christian traditions help Christmas spread across Europe?
It made the holiday familiar and easier for people to accept.
Why did medieval Christmas celebrations sometimes become loud or rowdy?
They included drinking, public partying and mischief.
Why did Santa become more focused on children during the Victorian era?
Victorians valued childhood and wanted Santa to teach kindness and generosity.
Why do secular Christmas traditions continue to change over time?
Traditions change as culture, media and society change.