DEITY APPRECIATION: KRAMPUS
Krampus Isn’t a Deity
Ok hear me out. Krampus is technically not a deity, but his presence sure carries the weight as such! Krampus is a demon-like figure that is considered the counter part to Ol’ St. Nick. Originating as a version of the Devil against Saint Nicholas, his image changed much like St. Nicks. They became even more extreme versions of themselves; one to carryout good deeds to those who are deserving, the other to take away the little ones who caused nothing but trouble. Legend stretches back hundreds of years originating from the European Alps. Considered to be a tall tale of the ‘mountain people’, Krampus’s reputation has swept across the world!
Early 1900s card reading "Gruss vom Krampus ("Greetings from Krampus").
Do I Really Need to Fear This Guy?
Well…no, not really. Belief in beings, no matter their origin, gives them life and truth. There are ancient myths that speak on children going missing, taken from their beds and not found until months later, unalived in the snow…if remains were even found. Being derived from a Devil figure, he isn’t one to be trifled with. Much like the Christian beliefs, he is the counterpart to a hero (Santa), a ‘good vs evil’ trope. The difference about Krampus is that he is specifically a being that targets children. So unless you are a child, you have nothing to fear.
When Good VS Evil Turns into Teamwork
Later legends reveal that it wasn’t as simple as loving Santa and fearing Krampus. You know the song Santa Clause is Coming to Town? Well, do you recall the line “…he sees you when you’re sleeping. He knows when you’re awake…”? Santas magical abilities to be able to see into the hearts and minds of children, to be able to keep tally of their good deeds, and misgivings, was actually what gave Krampus the understanding and knowing of which children to capture, torture, kill, and eat… Santas not such a jolly guy after all, huh? Through this teamwork Santa could keep the blood off his hands, and Krampus would be able to go through winter with a full belly.
Ok, So He Sounds Like a Bad Dude….
Sure, yeah, Krampus is the villain in this Yuletide story, but is Santa really off the hook that easily just because he’s not hands on? Like many myths and lore throughout history having ‘good vs bad’, ‘yin/yang’, ‘hero vs villain’, there is a balance that is working to be restored. One does not claim victor over the other, and if it does it’s not for long. In Witchcraft this also remains true, ‘good’ and ‘evil’ are simply judgments placed onto a situation or person based on ones lived experience. Now of course unaliving anyone is a nono, but the stories are used as cautionary tales to keep peoples morals in line. The story of Krampus is a good reminder to not just look at the villain and cast judgment, but what about those who are entirely compliant with his actions, but that stands by, turns a blind eye, and evades actions…?
The March of Krampus
Throughout Europe on December fifth, also known as Krampus Night, there are marches through villages, towns and cities. The townspeople gather around to welcome Krampus or the many Krampus’ who are making their way through the streets. Children watch in fear at their parents side, hoping they don’t get snatched up…well, of course they wouldn’t these are just costumes, but they really go all out! The fifth of December is marked as Krampus Night because he is meant to make his rounds the day before the feast of St. Nicholas, his rival. It is through his taking of the children on this day that helps St. Nick know which houses have good children…or children at all *gulp. A little tip to evade Krampus’ wrath is to simply give him a piece of fruit, an orange or apple (something to peel). It is said that he will then make himself comfortable, and begin to peel the fruit sharing it with anyone around him. Due to this kindness, it is said he will then leave without a single harm being harmed.
If this article provides you anything, I hope that it is one of precaution, preparation, and evasion.
Till next time, stay spooky Darklings xx
