Santa Claus is a world wide known figure during the Christmas season who inspires hope, happiness, and love. And above all, he is known for giving out presents. But have you ever wondered what Santa Claus would be like if he wasn’t so nice? Who is the opposite of Santa? That would be Krampus.
Who Is Krampus?
Krampus is a central European legend who is often associated with Christmas. Typically described as a two legged goat/demon figure with horns, who punishes the naughty or bad children on Christmas eve. His name comes from the German word Krampen, which means claw. While Santa Claus, or back then as he was called, St. Nicholas gave presents to the “nice” children on Christmas eve, Krampus did the opposite. He would sneak into the house, similar to Santa, but he would then proceed to beat the “naughty” children with sticks and branches. In some stories, it is said that he would eat the kids or take them to Hell.
Why Is Krampus Associated With Christmas?
You might be thinking, if Christmas is supposed to be all fun and happy, why is this demonic creature a part of it? Well, it has actually been this way for generations.
Krampus is most linked with Christmas because he was thought to have been part of pagan rituals for the winter solstice back then. According to people in most parts of the world, he is the son of Hel, the Norse god of the underworld.
And like most legends around the world, the story of Krampus got spread through religion.
With the spread of Christianity starting all over the world, somehow Krampus got interlocked with Christmas, despite the efforts of the Catholic church to ban him.
How Has Krampus Influenced The World Today?
Although he used to be a feared figure in the world back then, he is now sort of a global icon in a way! However, for over a century many Americans never even knew who or what Krampus was. This changed however in 2004, when Graphic designer and art director Monte Beauchamp published a book of Krampus cards, therefore spreading his popularity. Now, you can go onto any shopping site, and if you dig hard enough you can find Krampus mugs, sweaters, or even a suit! Krampus got so popular that he eventually even got his own movie.
So yes, Krampus, the counterpart to Santa Claus, causes fear, destruction, and nightmares. And he was and still continues to be an important part in many cultures around the world to this day!
