46. Is Christmas a Pagan Festival?
Pagan Religions in Five Minutes - Suzanne Owen
Alessandro Testa [+ ]
Charles University, Prague
Alessandro Testa is associate professor at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University, Prague. He specializes in the history of religions, social anthropology, and the ethnology of Europe. His latest publications include Rituality and Social (Dis)Order (2020), Politics of Religion (with Tobias Köllner, 2021), and Ritualising Cultural Heritage and Re-Enchanting Rituals in Europe (2023).
Description
Unravelling the intermingling of Christian and pre-Christian practices in celebrating Christmas is a topic worth exploring. The chapter sheds light on this intricate blend of traditions, presenting a compelling case for examining the roots of this holiday. Understanding the origins of Christmas customs and their evolution over time can provide a deeper appreciation for the significance of this festive season.