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The Krampus is a horned anthropomorphic figure who, in the Central and Eastern Alpine folkloric tradition, is said to accompany Saint Nicholas on visits to children during the night of 5 December (Krampusnacht; "Krampus Night"), immediately before the Feast of St. Nicholas on 6 December. In this tradition, Saint Nicholas rewards well-behaved children with small gifts, while Krampus punishes badly behaved ones with birch rods.[1][2]
The origin of the figure is unclear; some folklorists and anthropologists have postulated that it may have pre-Christian origins.[3] In traditional parades and in such events as the Krampuslauf ("Krampus run"), young men dressed as Krampus attempt to scare the audience with their antics. Krampus is featured on holiday greeting cards called Krampuskarten.
The figure has been imported into American popular culture, and has appeared in movies, TV and games.
- ^ Magazine, Smithsonian; Billock, Jennifer. "The Origin of Krampus, Europe's Evil Twist on Santa". Smithsonian Magazine. Retrieved 4 December 2023.
- ^ "Krampus | Definition, History, & Facts | Britannica". www.britannica.com. 20 October 2023. Retrieved 4 December 2023.
- ^ Forcher, Michael; Peterlini, Hans Karl (2010). Südtirol in Geschichte und Gegenwart [South Tyrol past and present] (in German). Haymon Verlag. p. 399.