Twelfth Night and the Garland: Tracing the History of Christmas Celebrations and their Link to Childbirth
The Garland in Christmas Traditions: Origins and Symbolism
The garland is an emblematic decoration of Christmas celebrations. It consists of a circle or an elongated shape made of evergreen branches, flowers, ribbons, and sometimes fruits or sweets. The garland Christmas is hung on doors, mantels, chandeliers, and trees, creating an atmosphere of festivity and joy. But why is the garland associated with Christmas, and what is its symbolism?
The origins of the garland date back to pre-Christian cultures. In ancient Greece and Rome, wreaths of laurel or myrtle were worn as crowns by victorious athletes, soldiers, and scholars. These wreaths represented honor, achievement, and knowledge. In northern Europe, the garland Christmas symbolized the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, when people celebrated the return of the sun and the hope of spring. Evergreen branches were preferred for their resilience and endurance in harsh weather.
With the spread of Christianity, the garland acquired new meanings. It became a decorative element in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who brought light and salvation to the world. The circular shape of the garland represented God’s eternal love, and the evergreen branches symbolized the everlasting life offered by Christ. In addition, the garland Christmas was associated with the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was often portrayed with a crown of roses or lilies, symbolizing her purity and beauty.
Today, the garland is a versatile decoration that can be personalized in many ways. It can be adorned with candles, bells, ornaments, and messages. It can be made of natural or artificial materials, depending on the taste and availability. Depending on context and creativity, it can be used as a traditional or modern element. But whatever its form, the garland Christmas remains a popular and cherished symbol of the holiday season.
Twelfth Night and the Garland: Celebrating the Epiphany and the Newborn
Twelfth Night is a traditional feast that marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of the Epiphany, the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God to the Magi, or Wise Men. Twelfth Night is celebrated on January 5th or 6th, depending on the country and the tradition. In some cultures, it is a time of merrymaking, gift-giving, and games; in others, it is a more solemn occasion with religious services and processions.
The garland plays a unique role in Twelfth Night celebrations. In some parts of England, a garland Christmas is made of holly and ivy and carried by a young girl dressed in white, who represents the Virgin Mary or the goddess of fertility. The garland is hung over the church font, symbolizing the purification of the waters for the baptism of the newborn Jesus and the welcome of new life into the community. The girl, sometimes called the “May Queen,” leads a procession around the town or village, collecting gifts and offerings for the poor or the church.
In other parts of Europe, the garland is associated with the naming day of babies born around Twelfth Night. The garland is made of white ribbons and flowers and hung over the baby’s cradle, symbolizing protection, blessings, and good luck. The parents, often accompanied by godparents and relatives, bring the baby to the church or chapel, where the priest or minister blesses the garland, and the baby’s name is announced. Then, a feast or a party is held, with food, music, and dance.
The Smithsonian Libraries hold many rare and fascinating documents related to the history and customs of Twelfth Night and Christmas celebrations. These archives offer insights into the lives and beliefs of people from different periods and places and show how the garland has been a part of their traditions for centuries. The Smithsonian Libraries about Twelfth Night collections reveal the beauty, diversity, and richness of human imagination and creativity, from medieval manuscripts to Victorian prints to modern books.