Krampus is a mythical fertility creature recognized in alpine countries.
According to legend, Krampus accompanies St. Nicholas during the Christmas
season, warning and punishing bad children, in contrast to St. Nicholas, who
gives gifts to good children.
The word Krampus
originates from the Old High German word for claw (Krampen). In the Alpine
regions, Krampus is represented by a demon-like creature. Traditionally, young
men dress up as the Krampus in the first two weeks of December, particularly on
the evening of 5 December, and roam the streets frightening children and women
with rusty chains and bells. In some rural areas the tradition also includes birching
by Krampus, especially of young girls. Images of Krampus usually show him with a
basket on his back used to carry away bad children and dump them into the pits
of Hell.
By North Utsire
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