Exploring Mythical Characters Beyond Santa Claus
When crafting a children’s Christmas story or a festive fantasy tale, it is tempting to focus on Santa Claus as a central character. However, there are many other enchanting possibilities that can bring a fresh perspective to your writing.
Deities of the Winter Season
Various deities are closely linked with winter. Odin, for example, is known in mythology for leading the wild hunt across the sky—an image that may have inspired the story of Santa and his flying reindeer. In Celtic lore, Cailleach reigns over winter, ushering in icy weather. The Roman god Saturn is celebrated during the festival of Saturnalia, which contributed traditions such as feasting and gift-giving to the Yuletide season and, eventually, Christmas. The Saturnalia orgies, however, didn’t become a modern tradition!
Personifications of Winter
Winter is often personified by fantastical beings. Figures include Father Christmas, Jack Frost, Boreas, Ded Moroz, and Yuki-onna, who may bring snow, ice or chilling winds. The idea of a snow girl coming to life is also common and is rooted in the Slavic legend of Snegurochka.
The Darker Side of Winter Legends
Not all winter fantasy figures are benevolent. For example, Krampus, a horned monster, is said to punish those who are unkind, while Perchta may go so far as to cut open the stomachs of wrongdoers. In Japanese folklore, encountering the ghostly Yuki-onna can result in being frozen to death, and Mahaha is a figure who kills by tickling.
Charming and Quirky Characters
There are also more endearing mythical characters linked to winter. The Barbegazi are skiing gnomes with white beards and large feet, and Belsnickel is like a grumpier version of Santa.
Further Inspiration
This overview highlights the variety of fantasy figures associated with the winter season and its festivities. For more inspiration, look in the section on ‘Winter Beings’ in my book, “The Writer’s Guide to Mythical People”.
