Krampus: Origins of the Yuletide Monster | Monstrum

[@belltaco129]

Really nice to see some representation of my home countries "monsters". Just one thing to add: Krampus runs aren't people dressed as Krampus but dressed as Perchten. Which ist more of an overarching species which the one Krampus is one individual of. Greetings from Austria! 🇦🇹💞

[@septembrmusic]

Perchten is a regional term afaik. Where I'm from, they're usally all called Krampus or Toifl (the Devil). We never had an individual "Krampus" - they are more like evil creatures which serve St. Nicholas and punish bad behaving children. The regional features of how they are called and look change very dramatically, though.

[@belltaco129]

@@septembrmusic Interesting we call the devil toifl as well but Perchten were always there own category wich had individual characters like Krampus or Perchta. Sometimes you would hear the word Krampen as the Perchten following of Krampus but Krampus ist still destinctly marked as The Krampus.

[@ianswinford5570]

It’s really a breath of fresh air that people from the same place as the monster in this video have something to add to this! Y’all are a welcome change of pace. Greetings from America!

[@turbobus4983]

Im recent years Perchten and Krampus got mixed up/lumped together. They are, however, two distinct albeit very similar looking "creatures". Traditionally Krampus runs are definitely people dressed as Krampus. "Perchtenläufe" are very similar but distinct.

[@Passions5555]

Could you explain what the difference is between these two creatures? This sounds facinating.

[@lmr7453]

I grew up in a village in the alpine region of southern Bavaria. As kids, on the evening of the 5th of december, we would always be visited by Saint Nicholas, who carried with him a golden book from which he read about when we were good and we were naughty. He always gave us a sack with sweets and fruits, but if he read about naughty deeds we did, the dark and silent man accompanying him would ring his heavy bells and rattle with his wooden sticks. This man was of course Krampus. We were told that if we behaved naughtily, Krampus would beat us, put us in his sack and carry us to the forest. As a kid I was naturally terrified by him, but looking back now, I think it's a nice tradition that I'm proud of having in my culture.

[@misss7777]

When I waa about three years old I was so afraid of both the Nikloaus ans of course Krampus that I hid in my room nd wouldn't come out even though my mom later told me the guy they hired as Nikolaus was really nice patient ... but well telling your kid those stories are true scares them - I was terrified🙈

[@lmr7453]

@@misss7777 Well, I once hid under a table in fear of the two. 😂

[@Firstsqd1]

Ok Demonic at 👌🏿 😂

[@GutsyMountaincat]

Funny, in the Netherlands this figure, krampus was replaced for blackfaced Piet (Zwarte Piet). He would punish the kids if they were naughty or put them in a sack and bring them back to Spain.

[@fishartist]

It was wonderfully informative. My grandma, who is born in 1896, told us of a Christmas monster that came when she was a girl. I did not know anything about the name or the origin until about 10 years ago. This really explained quite a bit! And I appreciate it. Thank you.❤

[@wimvanderstraeten6521]

Krampus is a good excuse to keep the Halloween spirit alive during the yuletide season.

[@MichaelJohnson-zh9df]

Yes 🎃🎃🎃 Halloween forever

[@alphagiga4878]

You could technically setup a krampus animatronic and call it a Christmas decoration

[@wimvanderstraeten6521]

@@alphagiga4878 That would be an excellent way to ruin the festive atmosphere😂

[@mancave10369]

@@wimvanderstraeten6521 There’s two versions by Unit 70 Studios: 1. The first one has a laughing Krampus holding a screaming child by the leg in one hand and birch sticks in another. 2. The second has Krampus with a screaming and kicking kid in a cage on his back. There was also a Krampus animatronic sold by Spirit Halloween that heavily resembles the one in the 2015 film which moves and makes noises

[@CorpseBride64]

100% ♥️

[@kaynide]

Just a fun note: In Japan we have a tradition from the north called "Namahage" (生剥) which literally would be the character "Raw" and "Peel" or "Peeled". The tradition is very similar to Krampus without any Christmas connection, likely brought from settlers coming from Russia. It is celebrated during the old New Year (So February). Otherwise the similarities are rather striking! Small world, huh?

[@memyselfandi8544]

Smaller than you think. All culture is based on Paganism, or Satanism. Santa for example, is Saturn, also known as Satan.

[@gothnerd887]

Also Krampus has a tongue similar to the Akaname (Filth Licker)👅

[@lolakuty-to9io]

"we" You are not Japanese.

[@kaynide]

"Oh noes, person who has been living in Japan 1/2 their life can't say 'we' to mean ' the people, including themself, who live in Japan'" Get a life bud. @@lolakuty-to9io

[@chromicapop4595]

In Japan namahage are supposed to Punish naughty children but are appeased with sake offerings(Meyers Yokai Guide book two)

[@Simon-np8bt]

I've been waiting for this episode! You described it so accurately, "usually drunken people dressed as Krampus chasing the unlucky ones". Usually in villages and towns people dressed as Krampus are welcomed by some people and they invite them into their house (of course together with st. Nicholas and sometimes angels) to scare children and then Nicholas tells Krampus (or Krampuses) to stop scarying nice children. The children get presents and people dressed as Krampus and Nicholas get a shot of schnapps afterwards. And yes they sometimes do hit people or at least they did till 10 years ago when I was a kid. This usually happens in villages where teenagers get together and provoke people dressed as Krampus to chase them with chains and ropes etc. Krampus people in cities and town parades however don't hit people, maybe just shake them and command them to kneel and pray or something like that. Its a fun and scary tradition. I was always scared to death when they chased us. I remember the revelation as a kid when you realize they are just people dressed as Krampus and not the actual demons. Regards from Slovenia

[@TomHaneyArtwork]

We were just at the Krampuslauf in Schladming, Austria and they were definitely hitting people. But the city put up barricades to try to keep the Krampus in his place.

[@laurenzreidinger9506]

@@TomHaneyArtwork it should be said that a lot of the violence is the result provoking Krampuses becoming the national sport among juveniles in Austria every December. They are mostly getting what they ask for. Also an increasing number of groups are deciding to go tea total before their shows nowadays.

[@PunkExMachina]

I absolutely love this episode. This channels feels so cozy like I’m being told a dark tale at night in front of a fireplace lol. Also that Mystery Incorporated reference is the cherry on top *chef’s kiss*

[@sheren_b]

the was so fun and informative and anytime scooby doo mystery incorporated gets a reference is a good time. also i love the pbs survey every year especially the pitches for new show!

[@ghostpenguins3]

That entire run of Scooby Doo was rather amazing, well worth checking out.

[@SpiffierShindigs]

Pretty sure they also shouted it out in the Baba Yaga episode so I think someone on the production team is a fan. As they should be, Mystery Inc is top shelf.

[@journ9er]

I first learned of Krampus from The Venture Bros' Christmas episode. I now have a Krampus plushie (from the 2015 movie) and a Funko Pop (more generic) in my Christmas decorations.

[@blauesserpiroyal2887]

The clanging of cowbells and the roaring of Krampus on St. Nicholas day belongs here to the christmas mood like the christmas tree. Just one thing: At least here Krampus are specifically the creatures that come with st. nicholas, the others are known as "Perchten" or more specifically "Schirchperchten", which are around until the end of the "Rauhnächte"

[@melanieg.9092]

yes! and at the later time you can meet the opposite, the "Schönperchtn" like the Glöckler for example

[@te9591]

Perchten are like gremlin henchmen?

[@misss7777]

@@te9591 No

[@AntediluvianRomance]

The other kind of Santa's elves?

[@arminreindl7742]

@@AntediluvianRomance Perchten are a completely unique tradition that just appears similar to Krampus (and probably explain the missconception of Krampus being tied to driving out winter spirits as mentioned in the video). While Krampus appears with Saint Nicholas (who as far as Austria is concerned is not the same as Santa) in early December, Perchten appear later in Winter in January. Krampus punishes bad children, Perchten drive out winter and spirits tied to it. No connection to Santa.

[@Outrageousfirevulture]

*"And as he had for thousands of years, Krampus came not to reward, but to punish, not to give, but to take."*

[@ronrendon]

So basically, Krampus is American capitalism at it's best (worst).

[@Ceares]

@@ronrendon nah because capitalism often rewards the naughty and punishes the good and Krampus is the opposite. He's the anti -capitalism, cause with him, the behaviors that thrive in capitalism get you beaten with sticks.

[@robertkent4929]

"Death metal version of Santa." Gotta love it

[@Zualio]

In middle and northern Germany, we have Knecht Ruprecht as the bad boy companion to St. Nicholas. He is more human-like, but also throws naughty children into his sack and hits them with a switch of birch 😅. It is fun playing him. PS: In the German dub of The Simpsons, their dog (Santa's little helper) is translated as Knecht Ruprecht 😁

[@SatansLilith]

I know this is not exactly what your comment is about but .. You made me think alot about how the dogs name is translated in other countries. In czech its translated as Spasitel which means savior :D

[@laurensteenkamp7693]

Interesting, in the Netherlands St Nicholas has a young black male servant called Peter (aka Schwarte Pieter). Peter and Sinter Claas come from Spain, obviously the Reindeer must only work on Christmas eve because it takes them 2 weeks to get to the Netherlands for the annual St Nicholas day festival on December 5th every year

[@wulfila99]

And further south, in Switzerland, we again have the human Schmutzli, dressed in brown robes and carrying a switch, accompanying St. Nicholas (or, as we call him, Samichlaus).

[@kirarasmom4274]

Is Knecht Ruprecht the same as Krampus? The legend is part of a centuries-old Christmas tradition in Germany, where Christmas celebrations start early in December. Knecht Ruprecht is the dark companion of St. ... The hell-bound counterpart is known by many names across the continent, such as Knecht Ruprecht, Black Peter, Schmutzli, or also as Krampus.

[@ThePG90]

@@kirarasmom4274 It's hard to tell If he is the same. From the outside Germany is often thought of as a monolithic cultural block. Especially Americans mostly only think of southern Germany (Bavaria, Baden-Würthemberg) because after 1945 these regions were occupied by american troops and the impression stuck that that's how german culture looks everywhere. In fact there used to be very different regional cultures. Extremely massivly simpified: You have the "High German" parts (mountainous south; more similar to Austria) and the "Low german" parts (Northern German Plains and Regions at the Sea; more to the Netherlands). In this exemple you can (in my oppinion) think of Knecht Ruprecht ("Servant Rupert") as a different figur from more of the "Low German" parts and Central Germany. But both are clearly related. Maybe both originiated from an older common myth that changed differently in different regions over time. "Knecht" literally means "servant" so Knecht Ruprecht is the Servant of St. Niclas. And he is not really seen as evil (at least were I'm from). They both just play different roles and Ruprecht really only does "just" punishment (and that used to be a beating with a bunch of sticks in the olden days) ... But I remember only my gandpa was ever beaten because he always refused to tell a poem for the "Christmas Man" as we call him. (St. Nick already comes at the 6th of Dez....long story) Our "Christmas Man" does not go thorugh chimneys... He shows up at your door with a big bell, knows how you behaved and tells you to sing a christman song or tell a christmas poem to him. If you can't you wont get presents... So to me both always seemed more like they team up as symbol for reward and punishment for how you behaved. And if you want to see this (at the end of each year) as a symbol for god judging everyone on the last day then that's maybe were the Devil thing comes from. If you belief in this kind of thing. So Ho Ho from Eastern Germany

[@katmartindale8049]

My mother was a highschool German teacher so I learned about German traditions early on. From advent calenders lining the bedroom hallway to Saint Nicholas Day and stories of Krampus, this was a small part of December in my childhood. I'm glad others are discovering these things too.

[@omccc]

This is not from germany

[@katmartindale8049]

@omccc Karmpus is German. Germany didn't always have the neatly defined borders that it has today so the culture had an influence on the various areas that were once part of the kingdom, from the Alsace-Lorrine in modern France to the Tyrol region in Italy and throughout the Alpine states.

[@omccc]

@@katmartindale8049 Krampus is not german. He is only in Bavaria very south in germany. Otherwise he is in Austria, Slovenia, Hungary and Switzerland. Krampus is originally from Austro-Hungary

[@philipibaugh2925]

Krampus is metal as hell I'd imagine he likes black metal lol. Great episode 👏 love the history and how it got twisted a little from traditional.

[@RogueAce93]

Great work as always, Dr. Zarka! I love how the story of Krampus tends to be a peculiar mix of the holidays and the macabre!!

[@dannycove3155]

I've spent years trying to get my wife onboard with doing "Krampus in the Closet" as opposed to "Elf on the Shelf." So far I have been unsuccessful. Surprising given she's a German teacher.

[@cuckoobrain7999]

a teacher who teaches german?

[@dannycove3155]

@@cuckoobrain7999 Yep. Speaks English but teaches German (and speaks it in her class, of course).

[@mythicalcreaturesdoctorsor3589]

Ancient Christmas nightmare bad kid with horn demon goat head feet donkey devil claus hand claws children punished gods santa Claus

[@MartinSalinas-mx4yj]

Krampus is pretty evil, why bring that around your kids? Better to teach them Christ and his teachings

[@bostonmeadhorn4897]

Frohe Krampusnacht... glück jezte?

[@joiedevivre2005]

I'm a member of the Krewe of Krampus in New Orleans. We just had our run recently (altered somewhat due to Covid restrictions). I've always felt (just my opinion) that the inspiration for Krampus came from the creatures that rode with Odin during his "Wild Hunt". Many feel that Odin was much of the inspiration for Santa Claus, so I think it would make sense that Krampus would be inspired by the beasts that accompanied him. Like I said, just my opinion.

[@lysanamcmillan7972]

I'm afraid you have proven you're not really holding an opinion. You're creating a fantasy out of very weak thread. The companion hunters with Odin on the Wild Hunt look nothing like demons. Not even Jakob Grimm claimed this for all the odds he wrote his own fantasies as you did yours. Moreover, a Krampus-like figure called Knecht Ruprecht led the Hunt in some areas of Germany, so I'm afraid facts destroy your "opinion" rather heavily. Please take the time to study what you like to see what we really know. Speaking from deliberate ignorance is a big reason why this country is so messed up right now.

[@joiedevivre2005]

@@lysanamcmillan7972 The definition of an opinion is "a view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge." I never stated that my comment was fact, only my personal opinion (twice), which I felt was safe to share here. I do find it rather funny that you felt the need to reprimand me for "creating a fantasy" regarding a creature that is, itself, a fantasy. As I am certain you are already aware, the mythology of the Wild Hunt varies from region to region and in some of these regions, the creatures participating in the Wild Hunt included fairies & elves which, if you look at some mythologies, these creatures can be rather beastly. Have a nice day.

[@lukethedank13]

Sadly it doesent have any proven conections to Odin but judging from the fact that Wild hunt is an existing even if thorougly cristianised legend in Slovenija it could be true in some manner. If we are going with pagan origin of Krampus (known in Slovenija as Parkelj -the hoofed one) that we sadly cant prove because o the lack of older historical data. He can be more easily connected to Čert, Črt or Chert, slavic demons whose name literaly translates to Hate and makes for a striking oposite to the good bishop. We know all solstice hollidays are extremely pagan but not all of the traditions are of germanic/norse origin no mater how cool and well represented those traditions are in modern time. Happy totaly not pagan solstice rituals to you and your group.

[@bananapuding866]

i'm part slovene and my family has strong traditions when it comes to saint nicholas' day, we usually make two sets of cookies- one who are meant for the "well behaved"- which are edible and decorated with glaze and the others which are meant for the "bad kids"- these are purposefully burnt.

[@pbsstoried]

Love this! Might have to adopt it myself-*Dr. Z*

[@mythicalcreaturesdoctorsor3589]

​@@pbsstoried krampus : 🇩🇪 Germany traditional Christmas night house

[@kaceeeddinger6946]

We share fun facts at a morning staff meeting where we review what's happening in my library district for the day. It was my turn the other day, and I shared about Krampus, since he's one of my favorite holiday figures and everyone was delighted to learn about him. I was even more delighted to see this come up today! Thank you for sharing!

[@janeyrevanescence12]

Speaking of Perchten, you should really cover Frau Perchten, the Epiphany Witch aka the Belly Slitter. She usually comes out on Epiphany Eve to see who has completed their chores (usually spinning), who has lied, who worked too hard (believe it or not) or who has eaten meat on Epiphany Eve (January 5th or the 11th Day of the Christmas Season). If you make her mad, she supposedly cuts your belly open and stuffs you full of rocks and straw. Now that character I know for a fact has connections to Mother Holle, a pagan goddess who eventually became the star of one of the Brother's Grimm Fairy Tales "Mother Holle".

[@mds_main]

In italy we have something similar called "Befana", but if you misbehave she at most leaves coal to you instead of candies (which are left for good children instead). In our tradition she is even considered to be Santa Claus's wife. It would be interesting to have a video on her, even if it kind of feels bad to call her a monster I guess 😂

[@toddaulner5393]

So thus the Jingle bells and Holly.

[@Beryllahawk]

I've read that book by Brom!! I was unaware that the "pagan origins" thing is a false narrative, though. The book does a really quite excellent job of setting up links and evoking that sorta "wild party spirit" side of the Krampus; and in it he's kind of an anti-hero? Well, he saves a bunch of kids anyway. Was a great yarn - and this video was just as entertaining!!

[@te9591]

Check out Broms Plucker. It's like if the "skull shirt kid" told Toy Story from his perspective.

[@carlos66965]

@@te9591 Yup that was an amazing book.

[@carlos66965]

Loved the Krampus book. His artwork is just fantastic too.

[@kaiklose6172]

@Beryllahawk while the pagan narrative for Krampusnis untrue, his predecessors, the Perchten, have their origin around frau Perchta a folk deity with definitive pagan origin. So the thing that inspired the various Krampen IS pagan, but Krampus as Santa's helper is deceidely not.

[@turbobus4983]

4:36 Krampus is absolutely still linked to St. Nicholas and usually arrives on December 5th (Krampus day) or December 6th (St. Nicholas day) or around those dates, definitely not the 24th/25th. (At least here in Austria.)

[@misss7777]

Hey neighbour😉 - it''s the same in Bavaria.

[@lukethedank13]

@@misss7777 same in Slovenija

[@mds_main]

Same in Italy

[@SchwarbageTruck]

My word, you don't realize how refreshing it is to finally hear someone say "Krampus" right

[@RhondaKL]

My mother was born and raised in Austria,and told my brother and I that one year,when she was a child,Krampus picked her up and put her in his basket,carrying her for a while. She was devastated until he revealed himself to be her favourite Uncle Erik! She said it was one of her fondest memories,though at the time she was so upset!

[@iismyalias]

Not cool Uncle Erik!

[@RhondaKL]

@@iismyalias 🤣🤣🤣

[@namenlos40]

I'm pretty sure his name was "Erich".

[@jasonjones7451]

That's f***** awesome, awesome uncle, awesome memory, awesome story, that's a childhood experience u remember

[@matejdostal9992]

This monster has it's tradition in czech republic too, and maybe in other slavic cultures, but it is called "čert". It also visits kids with st. Nicolas, but here they also have an angel with them. In this setup st. Nicolas is a vise but kind judge, čert is a manifestation of evil who treatens to take the child with him in an bag or sack, or wil gift the child with coal, and angel an manifestatin of good and gifts the child with sweets or, like several times in my case, socks. And its really popular in media too, there are loads of chrismas fairytale movies with them in czech. Here they are portreyed as members or workers in hell tasked with collecting human souls, and there typically are plots of redeaming sinners.

[@polomat14]

In Tesinske Slezsko/Ślónsk Cieszyński/Śląsk Cieszyński (South West Poland/East of Czech Republic) Krampus also is traditionally Santa Clauses companion, in a form mostly resembling the austrian rendition. Also it isn't a dichotomy between getting presents or a spanking. Just the Krampus comes first and smears a child's face with coal, which is a kind of a test of bravery. If the child cries, they have to tell Santa why they cried and why were they afraid. Santa gives advice on overcoming the fear, and then gives presents.

[@hendriklobe577]

Hallo Matej, does the name "čert" has a meaning? The word appears to me as it could mean "black".

[@polomat14]

@@hendriklobe577 it means "devil"

[@hendriklobe577]

@@polomat14 ah, thank you!

[@polomat14]

@@hendriklobe577 Also, your intuition wasn't that far off, because in most Slavic countries anything that translates to "the Black One" means devil himself :) And yest, it is basically inherent linguistic racism.

[@NL-ws5fv]

My sister and I always found the Krampus mythos fascinating. In some of the creole versions, you find there are some American variants of Santa's troublesome companion. Be it Belsnickel or others, it's interesting to see how such a fun idea was transplanted. I know of at least one obscure one in Missouri called Mecial, who's considered basically the 'naughty reindeer' after stealing Santa's coat. Can be especially spooky when told his best friends are the owls.

[@mathieuleader8601]

Mecial sounds like one of the Woodland critters from the Woodland Critter Christmas

[@currykingwurst6393]

Belsnickel is also german.

[@pbsstoried]

Learn more about Krampus and their fellow winter folklore friends at Moesgaard Museum (www.moesgaardmuseum.dk/en/news/christmas-creatures-at-moesgaard/krampus/ ) and check out the documentary Gruß vom Krampus for a modern look at the Krampus tradition (pimptheponyproductions.com/filme/gruss-vom-krampus/).

[@KrazyKobold]

You have an extra slash & parentheses included /) at the end of the Krampus link and it doesn't work without deleting it

[@kenster8270]

@@KrazyKobold Yeah, on KZbin you need to add a space between a link and a final parenthesis.

[@zionleach3001]

Could you do a video on witch owls of american folklore or skin-walkers?

[@bayleighflorence3945]

This is absolutely outstanding 👏 👌 🙌 😍

[@bayleighflorence3945]

Do you know the under water panther

[@patmullarkey7659]

There was an episode of the TV show "Grimm" that was all about the Krampus in Portland, Ore. It actually was pretty scary!

[@meeshafletcher]

I loved that show🎉❤

[@MariaVosa]

Why am I not surprised this is an Austrian tradition...? ;) Fun fact, in Sweden there was a long time tradition to dress upp as the Yule Goat around christmas. Sometimes just for fun, and eventually as an alternative to Santa, bringing gifts to the kids. This was a benign version who was not out for terrorising kids. We still often put goats made of straw under the xmas tree, and in the city of Gävle a giant straw goat is erected each year.

[@Kamina-brah]

Julbocken is most definitely very similar

[@tultsi93]

That's the thing in Finland, too.

[@digitalArtform]

Did you just try to slip in a conflation of Socialism and Nazis?

[@MariaVosa]

@@digitalArtform Have you been eating mistletoe berries? Where do you think you are?

[@ladydainwinters8564]

My mother was born in post WW2 Germany (1948), Bavaria, and she still remembers Black Peter, a Krampus style monster, coming to their town, Kempten Germany, with St Nicholas on the 6th. She was terrified of him as a child. The three books of St. Nicholas decided which children the monster would take and switch...he carried switches. The gold book was the one that contained the names of perfect children. No child ever was in that book that she remembers. A red book for average children, that would receive gifts and encouragement to improve. And finally a black book for the wicked children, that would be beaten with switches. She does not remember anyone being in that book either. Yes she is still alive and tells my children the tale.

[@Kuwagumo]

The Krampus Is awesome! Also, Dr. Z's outfit is amazing here!

[@nikkyk4839]

In Austria, we do love our Krampus culture still today. Kids aren’t told that a beating brings fertility anymore. We do love doing Krampus Lauf. Sometimes they even came to our school. If you’re especially unlucky, a friend of yours is under the mask and they will beat you a lot for fun. It’s gotten a bit out of hand with some teenagers enjoying beating people a bit too much which led to either the events being cancelled or supervised so that people don’t get seriously injured.

[@namtellectjoonal7230]

In my region of Germany we actually have Knecht Ruprecht as the companion of St. Nicholas. He's similar to Krampus in most respects though he's usually portayed more humanoid. I have early childhood memories of meeting St. Nick and Knecht Ruprecht on christmas markets and being scared to death xD

[@Giles29]

St Nicholas has other companions too in different places, such as Black Peter in Holland. Similar ideas to Krampus but not always as demonic in appearance.

[@namtellectjoonal7230]

@@Giles29 oooh how interesting ^^

[@Pingwn]

I love Monstrum! Those videos are so great, especially with the numerous inaccurate videos about monsters and folklore. Thank you and have a great holiday!

[@TylerRakstis]

Finally, there's another creature I was hoping you get to soon, and it's the monster that usually comes to mind when you think of Christmas monsters, outside of the Yule Lad's terrible mother Gryla, and their giant Yule Cat.

[@nicolaezenoaga9756]

One of my favorite monsters! On par with the Oni.

[@threepenpals]

That book-filled fireplace in the background is great, such a spooky, cluttered vibe, and seems almost like a riff on a yule log.

[@erikrinard7908]

The Venture Bros Christmas special from 2004 is the first time I had heard of Krampus. I personally feel that was the moment it really started breaking into the mainstream again.

[@Passions5555]

Oh gosh I remember that. Brock kicked it's ass. Also Dr. Venture was deemed wicked and Krampus switched him then humped him. 🤕🤢

[@trezalkapeliskova2121]

In my country (Czech Republic) St. Nicolas is accompanied by both Krampus ("čert") and an Angel. Though I have to say our version of Krampus is far less grotesque, at least what I remember from my childhood. Actually I believe the postcard at 6:30 is in Czech.

[@jonasholzer4422]

in my region of eastern Bavaria it's the same. St. Nikolaus, an Angel and a toned down Krampus without horns. (but Still hella scarry when they come into your house as a kid)

[@glorleastephanib.villanuev6351]

I just subscribed about a week or 2 ago and I can't get enough of these monster stories. I'm from the Philippines and I saw that you have featured one of our many monsters here in the Phil. If ever you get to feature more of our monsters, here's a few for starters : Tiyanak, Tikbalang, Kapre, Duwende, etc. They are so many that some may have already been forgotten if not barely known. I hope to see more of your monstrum videos!

[@MossCoveredBonez]

I love how this show highlights the social and cultural aspects of monsters and legends rather than taking the history channel route of trying to prove it

[@CidTheGargoyle]

Ages ago, even before that book came out I'm pretty sure, I remember reading somewhere that some tradition says Krampus' mother was Hel, the norse goddess of the dead. Don't know from who or where that supposedly came from or if it was a complete fabrication of someone on the internet, but I still find the idea fascinating. Speaking of which, Brom's book is a fun read. I highly recommend it.

[@raulgarza2612]

Wow! Fascinating. Thank you for the insight. For years I was under the impression that such MONSTERS were direct ancestors of my fourth ex-mother-in-LAW! Thank you for posting.

[@snakes3425]

Santa: Ho Ho Ho I don't enforce the naughty list (points to Krampus) that's his job.

[@mikegould6590]

Always look forward to new and more Monstrum!

[@Humongous420]

Personally I see Krampus and Santa as one in the same, a holiday Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

[@sallyhazy]

Somebody make this into a movie. I'd watch the hell out of it

[@Humongous420]

@@sallyhazy i actually wrote about this duel personality in my lore for Humongous Fungus of Urungus in the Christmas issue of The Humongous Mess :-) Kris Kringle has a rather dark secret...

[@toxicjay8562]

Snarled here on KZbin has a video about the krampus and Santa In the video the family was hiding during Christmas because of krampus who eventually broke into the house and the parents were all like " oh kids you have to accept your punishment"! And then Santa came because as there was some confusion it turns out krampus was going after the parents the dad was a pervert who was looking at his own daughter and I think the mother was either a drug addict or a gambler either way the parents were taken away and Santa was going to take the children to raise them because they we're still way too young to be on their own and the little girl was upset that krampus was going to be all alone and how misunderstood he was so she chose to go live with him the ending was really beautiful yet creepy if I remember right it ended with the boy saying if you're good me and Saint Nick will visit you but if you're naughty then you'll meet my sister...." It's been awhile since I watched the video so I may be wrong about a couple things

[@kylethomas7473]

Always love the narrations and the videos

[@gdiaz8827]

Merry Christmas Doctor

[@stephennootens916]

It is interesting how such monsters who wind up becoming a bit obscure only to once more to pop back into the world mainstream.

[@JBTriple8]

well I think its great people and media have seen That The Villains are Misunderstood and have good motivations i think thats Krampus has had a resurgence

[@doctorshrimppuertorico4599]

American and British children: "Yay, Christmas!" German and Austrian Children: "Oh no, Christmas!"

[@lucitribal]

At some point in the future, it would be nice to have an episode about the SCP project. Plenty of interesting monsters in there

[@oddbird5825]

Every year just a little bit more of the Krampus love.

[@Nunyo-Bizznez]

I week ago I had a dream you released a krampus episode, dr zarka 😳 Thanks for another great episode! Happy holidays to the storied team and their families ❄

[@bryangonzalez1398]

I have one big question for the Krampus and St. Nicholas relation. If the child is not only misbehaving but also a heretic does St. Nicholas also get in there and throw some punches?

[@SomePeopleCallMe]

I always thought it was really fucked up how they both come to your house when you were naughty. Like Krampus is doing his thing, decking some kid in the teeth, going jackie chan on their ass, while St Nicolaus and the parents stand idly by. Over some tea and coffee perhaps? Exchanging pleasant small talk while little Hansi is getting his knee caps bashed in by a 7'2 hellspawn. As soon as Hansi's central nervous system completely gives out and he's nothing more than a convulsing mass of flesh and shattered bones on the kitchen floor, good ole' Saint Nick is just like: "alrighty, we'll leave you guys to it then, happy hollidays, byeee :)". Nicholaus is the real psychopath, like the owner of a pitbull, who trained it to maul the postman

[@thevoid4393]

@@SomePeopleCallMe did that happen to your sibling?

[@Passions5555]

@@SomePeopleCallMe this description seems oddly specific 😲

[@jonathanmartin3767]

Monstrum, the best part of this channel.

[@johno5605]

I must say that Krampus bears a striking resemblance to a Slavic creature called "cohort." Similarly, chort has a satyr-like appearance of which may have inspired the image of this creature

[@TsulaAngenati2292]

Isn’t he more so based on the ancient depiction of Satan? With the black fur, goat-like legs and horns with a long red tongue

[@Passions5555]

Ooh 😮 what is a cohort?

[@Chinchompers]

With this video I realised I'm very happy my country (Netherlands) only celebrates Saint Nicolas' birthday without any mention of Krampus when I was little

[@ihlk69]

Im watching the movie im halfway and had to stop, But this will help me understand the Krampus story thank you!

[@twincast2005]

7:50 This "Mother Krampus" reminds me of "the Devil's grandmother" we have in Austrian folklore. Just a name association thing, though; I'm sure the character is more basic female monster than wily old hag exasperated by her grandson's ineptitude.

[@travisshallenberger9486]

I have a mighty need for one of those carved masks! But one of the earliest modern depictions of Krampus I can think of is one of my favorites. The Christmas episode of the Venture Brothers, where the boys accidentally summoned it, and it proceeds to accost (and whip, of course) Doctor Venture, further establishing him as more of an overgrown boy than a full fledged adult.

[@Passions5555]

He did more than just whip him 😑

[@Hunter-dl5bj]

Those carved masks cost a lot

[@calebbusing6171]

I was wanting you to make a video of the Krampus. Thanks for doing it.

[@rickybryan1759]

Thank you for another great year I love your videos, your presenting style and you obvious academic expertise.

[@FireFoxGaming_]

I’m so happy I found this video! idk where the hell this idea of “child of Hel” came from but that did not sit right with me. It kind of just gave me a thought of “oh so demons did exist in Norse mythology? Is he a half god then?” And it was just…weird…

[@karldehaut]

I don't know if someone said it before me. You forgot to mention Switzerland… I love what you do.

[@seabearninja4060]

Finally! I waited so long thank you!!,

[@Lara-rm3gs]

Can I just say that the drawings/animations are always amazing in these videos? Chapeau!

[@windlessoriginals1150]

Thank you

[@davepctech1559]

0:07 "...with a Switch in hand", ok but is it the old model or the new Switch OLED ?

[@kojo7485]

I've never heard of this Christmas 🎄 myth until the 2016 movie 🎬 🎞 🎥 🎦 📽 🤔 came out 😅

[@Jassiepoohbear]

Extra excited for this one!!!

[@Pollux95630]

“Death metal Santa” Wearing cool little skull pendant. I think I’m in love. 😍😂😂😂

[@Indie973]

I’m part Germanic so krampus is part of my culture which I am very proud of

[@DorianEudesSeverin]

In France, we have "Le Père Fouettard" (Father Whipper), which has roughly the same role; the difference being, it's just a dude. He gives you coal instead of oranges if you were just a bit naughty, or he uses a cat'o'nine-tails to whip you with. Supposedely he is a bad man, associated through myth with Saint Nicolas: He was basically a serial killer, that tricked children into his house, and killed them and salted them to have meat for the winter. Saint Nicolas passing by, ressucited the children, and condemned the man to atone by dishing -rightfull- punishments alongside him, forever.

[@mombiethezombie7536]

Krampus has a strong place in my holiday traditions. My boyfriend and I both gave German roots and he even dresses up in traditional Krampus garb on the 5th of December. We even have a small section of our living room that is dedicated to him and includes statues and other likenesses of him.

[@wikibear9632]

YES!! Been waiting for this one forever!! Thank you! 🙏

[@Isaac-vq9gw]

Omfg that Scooby reference 👀

[@marcelotimoteo99]

You could subtitle this videos in multiple languages. They're so good and useful, I wish I could show them my friends, but they don't speak english

[@fandomonium3789]

I'm surprised no mention for American Dad, one of the first popular TV shows to feature Krampus. Especially when, in a later episode, Stan's father, Jack, *became* the new Krampus. He's even shown up from time to time as Krampus since becoming the holiday figure.

[@Passions5555]

That version of Krampus just uses the rod on naughty kids. I also like the thought of Stan's Dad being from Bravaria

[@meeshafletcher]

🤯🤯

[@lindseyfishel3909]

Yay, Krumpas! One thing on my bucket list is to go to one of those festivals of Krampus

[@blueeyedduelist6412]

I love Mystery Incorporated it’s the best Scooby Doo show. It has action, drama, humor, an overarching story, and cool monsters

[@LucyPlushie-yc9lv]

Another great video

[@brianmatheney9451]

Merry Christmas Dr. Emily!

[@YControl129]

My friend from Austria told me back then her school would gather all the kids outside, have one of the teachers dress up as Krampus and pretend to whip them as a Christmas treat.

[@JanLegris]

This was great :) I really enjoy the thoughtful/provoking conversation about the stories we tell that scare us :) Since scary is exciting ;) and there's a lot of extra history and familiarity woven in.

[@fartsofdoom6491]

I see a lot of fellow Austrians and others in the comments having very specific ideas of what constitutes a Krampus or a Percht, and would like to remind anyone reading this that traditions literally vary from village to village, and not one comment you're gonna read here is the "correct" version. In my village, only the two leading Krampusse have a pair of horns, the Larven are wooden, goat fur is worn, broad belts strapped around the chest with huge bells on them (I'm talking twenty to thirty kilogrammes of extra weight, and yeah, they do have to be careful about potential back injuries). Also, our Krampusse have no switches, but some do carry pitchforks only during Ausläuten (out-ringing; the public celebration of the end of Krampus time on December 6th, where they usually showfight a few witches and other masqueraded townsfolk, such as a doctor, a pair of beggars, and a fool), before St. Nick banishes them. Before that, they roam the streets for a week, attacking anyone they meet (usually just throwing them to the ground and rubbing snow in their faces, nothing serious). To us, Perchten and Klaubaife and Tuifl are just what they call Krampusse in other places, not specific categories, as I've seen some here argue.

[@sailorcat]

Krampus was part of my childhood, so let me tell you about my experiences. St. Nicholas (or Nikolaus) would come to our house on December 5th/6th. He was accompanied by Krampus, and often also an angel. He would read out from a golden book if I'd been naughty or nice. Krampus did sometimes wear a demon mask, but often also just a black skiing mask. He would carry chains and a rod. Sometimes he would (pretend to) hit me with the rod, but only so lightly it wouldn't hurt. Of course I always got little gifts frim Nikolaus at the end, wich mostly included candy, walnuts, or little toys. I used to be very scared of St. Nikolaus and Krampus (yeah, for some reason I was scared by Nikolaus as well, because he could see everything I did). On Christmas (evening of Dec 24th), another being would come to our house to bring me (bigger) presents - the Christkind. It's actually supposed to be Jesus, but most people think of it as a female, angel like creature with golden hair. She's accompanied by angels and she doesn't punish you, except maybe by not brining presents. I really like the Christkind, and it's kinda sad that Krampus has become so well known, but not her. I guess Krampus is just the more interesting creature. In other regions of Germany, the Weihnachtsmann ("christmas man") brings the presents, who is basically Santa Claus. St. Nikolaus doesn't come with Krampus, but some regions have a similar, less scary being called Knecht Ruprecht. It's also common for Nikolaus to not visit the house, but put the presents in a boot the children have put up.

[@willlyon7129]

We've seem to be getting a renaissance of Krampus in recent years.

[@kelleyfriend8565]

We love Monstrum and watch it as a family every week. We want the Kelpie next please! And then the Loveland Frog! 😁

[@erinnguthro4591]

Could you do an episode about Angels? I'm curious as to how they changed from 4 headed cherubim to a baby cherub.

[@THATSIMSGUY800]

yeah i read that too in holy bible where it meation them having four head i thought the baby cherub was quite dumb idea and dont get me Started on cupid that was probably dumbest of them all i always thought who in their right mind give baby a bow and in arrow that allow two strangers to fall in love a baby can barely not less stand so how can you expect a baby to shoot a arrow at somewhere too many hole in that story

[@ohyeagirl1111]

My grandma, who left Hungary as a teenager, started mentioning Krampus in the last couple of years. I guess she waited till we were adults to tell us about him. I kinda appreciate that 😂

[@MyssBlewm]

I loved this! It's so much more interesting to know Krampus's true origins!

[@mattdeblassmusic]

The German part of my family kept the St Nicholas Day tradition of leaving our shoes out overnight as kids, to find small gifts of candy and money in the morning, fortunately, they didn't bring the Krampus with them, my brother and I wouldn't have been able to sit down until Valentine's Day.

[@tandysaysyoucandoanything6758]

Love krampus ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

[@davivignola5895]

I've often thought holiday shopping would be a lot more bearable if there was a Mall Krampus across from the Santa's village. "Behave Timmy, or you know what line you'll be waiting in!"

[@thevoiceofdarkness7655]

"Why inventing a Yuletide character who literally beats children into submission?" Well, someone had to do it!

[@etwasneues5754]

Sonce im from a protestant region in Germany we've got Knecht Ruprecht/a kind of Beelzebub but he does the same as Krampus

[@maxwheatley4497]

I imagine a lot of work goes into monstrum videos, but I'd love to see them more

[@Trey_816]

My neighbor's kids were being impossible to deal with, so my girlfriend dressed up as Krampus. She wore a red Santa dress with a pillow stuffed into it to make it look like she already ate a naughty kid, small deer antlers on a headband, fake sharp teeth, and a fake tail. We tried to make it more cute than scary (we didn't want to *traumatize* them, but scare them a little).

[@deltatango6793]

When this came on my playlist, and I heard your voice, I thought you were Desi Lydic and that this was about to be a funny skit/story on The Daily Show. 😂

[@dustinclark3390]

I heard someone once tell me that when they were in Germany they were surprised they didn't have Santa Claus, they had old man winter, it's like Santa Claus but instead of bringing gifts he just beat kids with a staff. I love that Krampus inspired the Grinch.

[@comraderaptor4996]

The "Krohmpus" pronunciation made this video on watchable