This weekend we celebrated the Reason for the Season, der Krampus.
We began the day with a perennial classic, much to my elation and the boys' chagrin, "Lass jetzt Los" (Let it Go, from Frozen) and a summary of my week.
We then spent the majority of our time up until we had to participate somewhat in the preparations for the Weihnachtsprogramm learning about Krampus.
I managed to find a video explaining the highlights of the legend:
- Accompanies Saint Nikolaus on Nikolaustag
- Nikolaus gives gifts to good children, Krampus takes away bad children and eats them
- Appearance like a satyr or neo-medieval demon
Because I'm a fan of history and anthropology, I explained why it is that legends like this come to pass, about how in previous centuries adherence to social norms and obedience to one's parents meant not just good social standing in a community, but potentially even life or death (e.g. "don't wander in the woods at night!" because hey there are wolves out there). Hence why we have cautionary tales and exaggerated legends to try and enforce good behavior.
We then had the choice: either write a letter to St. Nick telling him how good we've been and what we want for Christmas, or to Krampus saying how actually pretty good we've been and hey don't eat us. Most chose the latter.
We will meet again in the new year -- December 22nd and 29th are not school days.
Mit Vergnügen~
