Myths and Legends of Christmastide

The text surveys seasonal customs, superstitions and legends associated with the Nativity across many lands, describing folk practices such as animals or bees seeming to respond at midnight, ritual sledging, sheaves for birds, star-processions, distinctive puddings and long-preserved breads. It contrasts varied observances of home decoration, the symbolic use of trees and candles, and improvised tropical alternatives, then turns to sacred sites and relic traditions at the birthplace church and theories about the guiding star. Pagan roots and meanings of evergreens, holly and mistletoe are traced, and a Black Forest legend links a charitable act on Christmas Eve to the origin of the Christ-flower.