The Legend of Krampus
You better watch out; you better not cry…because Krampus will punish you! That’s right – Krampus, the half-goat, half-demon, punishes children who misbehave at Christmastime. As the scary companion of St. Nicholas, Krampus is often seen with a bundle of sticks (switches) that he uses to whip naughty children as punishment for being disobedient. Sometimes, he even carries them away in the bag or basket on his back.
The Legend of Krampus hails from Germany because, of course, it does. Germany is known for its scary fairytales. And earlier generations had no qualms about scaring children into submission, especially during the busy time of the year. Krampus’s name comes from the word “Krampen,” which means claw in German, and he’s often seen with menacing claws and demonic horns on his head. But his origins are even older than the version we’re used to today. Let’s explore!
Is Krampus the Son of Hel?
Historians believe that Krampus’s origins may be in Norse pagan traditions. The thought is he was originally a son of Hel, the goddess of the Underworld. Another origin point – and one that seems more likely – is Alpine Austria, where adults would dress up as Krampus and scare children.
As Christianity spread, Krampus moved from being a Winter Solstice fixture to being a part of Christmas. The Catholic Church didn’t like that too much, and they tried to ban him, but the people wouldn’t have it. Instead they continued the traditions of Krampus Night and Krampus Run, and in some cases, these traditions became larger as a result of the Church’s warnings.
So, to this day, we can celebrate Krampusnacht (Krampus Night). In fact, in the late 20th century, Krampus experienced a resurgence in popularity in Austria and Germany, and the Krampus Run, or Krampuslauf, became a favorite winter event celebrated throughout the region. During the Krampus Run, people dress up as Krampus, hold parades, and sometimes playfully chase people in the streets.
When is Krampus Night?
Krampus Night, or Krampusnacht, is on the night of December 5th. On this night, as far back as the Medieval period, men dressed up as Krampus, dragging chains and carrying bells to frighten naughty children. That’s because December 6th is St. Nicholas Day, when “good children” wake up to treats and gifts. Krampus Night was a final warning to be good or suffer the consequences.
Those consequences varied by region and severity of the disobedience. At best, Krampus would pass by in the night and leave well-behaved children alone. At worst, children would be abducted and later eaten – that’s right, eaten – by Krampus. I don’t know about you, but that would have made me behave way back then!
So, this December 5th, listen for the sound of chains and bells – and maybe ring your own bell to let Krampus know you’ve been good – you never know what might be lurking through the streets!
Stay Magickal,
Megan W.