Chillin’ with Krampus by Granny Anarchy
Have you had it with “Ho Ho Ho” and “Happy Holidays?” How about spending some time with Krampus? Occasionally incorrectly explained as the “anti-Santa,” Krampus is a folkloric figure. who originated in southern Bavaria, a mountainous part of Germany and Austria. He is now also celebrated in Croatia, Hungary, parts of northern Italy, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic.
hands. (Fun fact: Words to describe “goat-like” include “caprine” and “hircine.” You’re welcome.)
ORIGINS His name may be derived from the German word “krampen,” which means “claw.” Krampus has scary talons and rips naughty children away from their homes. Another etymological possibility is the Bavarian word “krampn,” meaning “dead” or “rotten.” Krampus is reported to be the son of the Norse god Hel (Marvel movie goers might confuse this name with Hella,) the god of the Underworld. Krampus is known in Central Europe as a companion of St. Nicholas - an inspiration for Santa
Simmons performing in 2019 via Wikipedia
Claus. St. Nicholas visits homes
Krampus looks like a demonic
aka Krampusnacht.) Nicholas
man-goat with large horns on his
places small gifts such as candy
head, a Gene Simmons-like
in the shoes of good children.
tongue, and shaggy, matted, dark
However, being a saint, Nicholas
fur. He is typically depicted with a
cannot perform bad deeds. He
fanged grimace and clawed
needs a heel to deal with unruly
on December 5 (St. Nicholas Eve,