Written and © by Jarno Tarkoma

Father Christmas

Generally a bearded old man in fur costume who appears in Yuletide and gives presents. Incorporates many traditions from different European countries and also newer American customs. The characteristics can be divided roughly into three groups: Those with traditional religious significance, those with trad but pagan origin and those needed for the plot only (logical fill-ins for the continuity of the story). Main sources:

Gifts: from St.Nicholas and the Magi (The three wise men from Orient), from pagan (Roman) Saturnalia custom.

Beard: St. Nicholas is traditionally imaged as bearded. Furthermore the Magi are bearded, being Persian priests. A traditional feature. The beard is white because the man is old.
Costume: The general form of the cloak probably derives from St.Nicholas, although the traditional costumes of the three Magi also may have contributed. The fur linings probably are logical add-on to fit the Northern Myth. In Finland Father Christmas may use true fur coat.
Reindeer: Cute creatures and Santa must use some form of transport. If He comes from North, so why not reindeers, who can be saddled with various fabulous names as well. An American add-on to the story.
The sock The repository for presents. A logical add-on.
The chimney In Scandinavia and Germany Santa comes in in 24th December, knocking the door like normal people. In England and America the visit is secret and thus the entrance must be special: the chimney.

North Pole: the supposed dwelling place of the American Father Christmas. No clear significance of any kind. Probably connected with the general "Northern exposure" of the American Christmas lore. The fact that Chistmas is pronouncedly Winter's festivity may contribute: North Pole is Winter doubled.

Cap: Probably from the bishop's mitre of St.Nicholas. Curiously enough the mitre resembles and possibly derives from the headgear of old Magi (mages, Persian priests. the other Christmas present-givers). The Phrygian headgear of French Revolution fame might be one influence.