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Event
Profs & Pints: Nightmares Before Christmas
Profs and Pints presents: Nightmares Before Christmas, a discussion of Krampus and other dark holiday lore, with William Egginton, professor of humanities and director of the Alexander Grass Humanities Institute at Johns Hopkins University.
Twas the night before Christmas, and if not a creature was stirring, it might have been because they were cowering under their bed covers, terrified. Come to the cozy Bier Baron Tavern for a discussion of the darker lore of the holiday seasonthe tales that inspire us to search our own souls and worry about the price well pay for being naughty rather than nice.
The star of the talk will be Krampus, the hairy, horned, demon who accompanies Saint Nicholas in visiting homes in Germany, Austria, and other Central European nations every December 6th. Americans happily embraced the kindly Saint Nicholas, who brings toys and chocolates to deserving children, as our own jolly, red-suited Santa Claus. We were less willing, however, to open our homes to the evil Krampus, who lurks behind St. Nicks white beard and robes and promises punishments to those less deserving of treats. Hes catching on now, however, as evident by the nations growing number of annual Krampus parades, including DCs own, on H Street.
Professor Egginton, a scholar of horror in literature and popular culture, will summon up other frightening figures and dark lore associated with the holiday season. Hell delve into the pagan roots of Christmas as a solstice ritual, and show how its early origins helped give the season a sinister side and inspire traditions such as coal in stockings. Hell talk about that mean one, Mister Grinch, conjure up the ghosts of Dickens, and explore the growing genre of Christmas horror films. Hell show how thrilling and scary antics often associated with carnival and Halloween have their place in Christmas traditions as well. (Advance tickets: $12. Door: $15, save $2 with a student ID.)
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LocationThe Bier Baron Tavern (View)
1523 22nd St NW
Washington, DC 20037
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: No |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
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