Christmas: A Short History from Solstice to Santa. This item is unavailable.Christmas: A Short History from Solstice to Santa

Covering ancient ceremonies, mythology, the gospels and traditions from around the world, Andy Thomas uncovers the fascinating background to one of the biggest festive seasons – Christmas.

Have you ever wondered where Christmas comes from? Or why and how it has been celebrated throughout the centuries? This book takes you on an intriguing and entertaining journey through its social history.

Learn about the:

• astrological associations
• symbolism of the Nativity
• excesses of the Roman festival of Saturnalia
• Puritan ban of Christmas 
• Victorian-era revival
• introduction and rise of gift-giving
• origins and developments of Father Christmas
• food and traditions from around the world
• history of its stories, songs and symbols

Andy is a lecturer and author on folklore, histories and unexplained mysteries and has made numerous appearances on radio and TV. Beautifully illustrated, this book tells the fuller story behind the sparkle and the merriment, and shows why Christmas has survived and still has meaning for us today.

Andy Thomas is one of the UK's most experienced lecturers and authors on folklore, histories and unexplained mysteries. He has made numerous appearances on radio and TV, including BBC One's The One Show, andNational Geographic and History channels. He is renowned for his thought-provoking and entertaining books and lectures, and speaks prolifically to all kinds of audiences across Britain and around the world.