Myth of the Week 020
"Nikolaus and Krampus in Austria." Newspaper-illustration from 1896.
Krampus is a beast-like creature from the folklore of Alpine countries. He is thought to punish children during the Christmas season who have misbehaved, in contrast with Saint Nicholas, who rewards well-behaved ones with gifts. Krampus also captures particularly naughty children in his sack and carries them away to his lair.
Typically, Krampus is represented as a beast-like, demonic creature. Although his roots are in Germanic folklore, his influence has spread far beyond Germany's borders. Young men often dress up as Krampus in Austria, Romania, southern Bavaria, South Tyrol, northern Friuli, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia during the first week of December and roam the streets frightening children with rusty chains and bells. There are many other names for Krampus, as well as regional variations in his portrayal and celebration.
