Christmas

Covering ancient ceremonies, mythology, the gospels, and traditions from around the world, this book uncoversthe fascinating background toone of the biggest festive seasonsChristmas. Have you ever wondered where Christmas comes from? Or why and how it has been celebrated throughout the centuries? This book takes you on an intriguing and entertaining journey through its social history. Learn about the:astrological associationsNativityexcesses of the Roman festival of SaturnaliaPuritan ban of Christmasintroduction and rise ofgift-givingorigins and developments of Santa Clausfood and traditions from around the worldhistory of its stories, songs and symbolsAndy Thomas is a lecturer and author on folklore, histories and conspiracy theories and has made numerous appearances on radio and TV. Beautifully illustrated, this booktells the fuller story behind the sparkle and the merriment, and shows why Christmas has survived and still has meaning for us today.