Christmas was first a Pagan holiday. The winter solstice was celebrated on December 21st. Yule logs were burned in the fire places to keep away the night since December 21st is the longest night of the year. It was celebrated to welcome the returning of the sun because after the 21st, the days become gradually longer.
Christianity reitified the winter solstice into Christmas. It kept many of the same traditions but changed the basic meaning. The halos of the angels were taken from the halos that the pagans wore to honor the sun gods. The day was changed to match when the winter solstice would be on the Julian Calender, December 25th. The holiday no longer welcomed the sun, but instead welcomed Jesus Christ, who was born on December 25th. Pine trees which were originally used by the pagans were used by the Christians. Many of the festivities remained the same, including being "merry" and having "feasts", but the overall significance of the holiday was drastically changed from one symbol to another.
So what about the Christmas season is commodified? Christmas trees are no longer cut down from our back yards. Now we either go somewhere and buy one that's already cut or we buy simulations of pine trees that even come pre-lit. We buy lighting to simulate the stars. We buy nativity scenes. We buy gifts and food and seasonal dinnerware that will only be used this one time. We buy decorations that simulate snowflakes, santas, snowmen, pinecones, etc.
The better question is: what about the season isn't commodified?
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment