Chapter 1
Mesopotamian guardians of the wind
Chapter 2
Egyptian judges of the dead
Chapter 3
Slavic shadows of the deep forest
Chapter 4
Alpine enforcers of the winter solstice
YOUR GOAL
Master of Dark figures of world mythology
Ch 4 · Alpine enforcers of the winter solstice
renaissanceman Alpine Winter Solstice Enforcers
We run through the snow under heavy iron bells, Chasing the dark where the winter shadow dwells.
renaissanceman Perchta is a dual-faced Alpine goddess who rewards tidy spinners and punishes lazy workers.
renaissanceman Krampus carries a bundle of birch twigs to swat troublemakers and a basket to carry them away.
BETA
renaissanceman Match each solstice monster to its ancient myth to discover the origins of winter folklore.
Fun Fact
Krampus's name: The name Krampus comes from the old Germanic word 'Krampen,' which translates to 'claw,' highlighting his beastly, half-goat physical features.
Glossary
krampus (noun)
A horned, beast-like figure in Central European folklore who punishes poorly behaved children during the winter holiday season. During December 5 celebrations in Austria, participants wear hand-carved wooden masks to portray this mythical punisher.
A horned, beast-like figure in Central European folklore who punishes poorly behaved children during the winter holiday season. During December 5 celebrations in Austria, participants wear hand-carved wooden masks to portray this mythical punisher.
Quiz
What did Frau Perchta do to lazy people who failed to finish their spinning?
Quiz
In which century did the Catholic Church attempt to ban Alpine Krampus celebrations?
Quiz
What material is traditionally used by modern Austrian carvers to make Krampus masks?