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Articles on Christmas

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A postcard depicts Adolf Hitler posing with a child and a Christmas tree.

How the Nazis co-opted Christmas

Through the Nazification of Christmas, the regime was able to gain the support of ordinary Germans.
In the Netherlands, the tradition goes that Sinterklaas lives in Madrid, wears a red clerical robe and a bishop’s mitre, and has servants called ‘Zwarte Pieten’ (Black Peters). from www.shutterstock.com

Schnapps, whipping and sacks: how Christmas traditions evolved around the world

The celebration of Christmas has distinct variations around the world, with many of these local traditions arising from particular historical circumstances.
Buddy is a sucker for the silly season. danperezfilms/flickr

Spare a thought for our furry friends this Christmas

Christmas is here again, and we’re excited for decorating, parties, and summer getaways. But before we dive into the silly season, let’s first make sure our pets are properly taken care of.
‘What difference would it make to human life if a celestial event were unequivocally linked to the very night of Jesus’ birth?’ Nathan Rupert/Flickr

Does it matter if there was really a Star of Bethlehem?

What difference would it make to human life if a celestial event were unequivocally linked to the very night of Jesus’ birth?
The virgin birth at the heart of Christianity has many corresponding versions in other ancient traditions. Detail from a panel by Conrad von Soest, 1403. Wikimedia Commons

Friday essay: virgin mothers and miracle babies

Biblical scholars and theologians have long discussed, debated and disputed the virgin birth of Jesus, with some arguing that there is no imperative to link it to the doctrine of the Incarnation.
It’s often sold as the ‘happiest time of year’ – but not in classic Christmas tales. Alice Popkorn

Bah, humbug: the misery of Christmas in classic literature

Most modern Christmas films angle for comedy with a touch of schmaltz, but literary Christmases frequently tap into the anxiety and sadness that can accompany the “happiest time of year”.
He’s tweeted, Instagrammed and Facebooked, but will he get what he wants? Shutterstock

You could be suffering from FoMO this Christmas

Social media can amplify the fear of missing out, or FoMO, but it can also be a platform for emotional support during the festive season.

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