The Krampus is a tradition from the Alpine region, representing a scary character associated with Advent (the start of December). Alongside Saint Nicholas, who rewards well-behaved children, Krampus serves as the sinister counterpart that punishes those who misbehave.
The name derives from the Old German cramps = “claw” or from the Bavarian “Krampn” = something lifeless or withered.
By the middle of the twentieth century, this frightening aspect of Krampus became much more pronounced and exaggerated. He was often depicted as a terrifying figure with a dark, blackened face. In folklore, Krampus threatened to physically punish any naughty child who misbehaved during the festive season.
In many regions, even today, adults often scold younger children by saying, “If you are not good, it will be the Krampus—not Saint Nicholas—who will come to see you.” This warning is intended to encourage them to behave properly. This practice is still somewhat prevalent in Bavaria and Tyrol today. The figure of Krampus, although depicted differently in various cultures, is also recognized in Hungary, the Czech Republic, parts of northern Italy, and certain areas of Croatia. In contemporary celebrations, Krampus has frequently adopted characteristics from the traditional Perchtengestalten figures as well.
In the Bavarian alpine foothills and in the Austrian Salzkammergut the Krampus is more commonly known under the name “Kramperl.” The Salzkammergut also comes from the name “Nicholas” derived name “Niklo.”
The Krampus Tradition was originally spread throughout Austria, and then was forbidden in the Inquisition. No one was allowed to disguise themselves as a devilish figure because of the death penalty, however, this winter custom was continued in some hard-to-reach places.
The forerunners of today’s Krampusse, under the name of “Devil,” were the companions of Nicholas. Since the middle of the 17th century, the monastic schools (Children’s Bishops’ Festival) had developed the subject of one’s faith: St. Nicholas, accompanied by frightening figures, examined and bestowed the children, while the wicked were punished by the “devil.”
Such folk customs were also often punished by the ecclesiastical and worldly, banned because they were considered to be outmoded and saw them as a reason for disputes and immorality. In the past, the Krampus was also an element of social control. They reprimanded the customs of the population, punished miserly peasant women and too strict employers.
Learn more about Austrian customs and folklore by ordering a book here on Amazon
Often they also put “the tail in the window” to the authorities. In the Age of Enlightenment, these customs saw an expression of backwardness and an undermining of custom and order. But the tradition kept on secretly, and changed steadily and finally disappeared altogether. Around 1900, folkloristic, social and economic aspirations rediscovered and changed customs.
Till this day in Austria, the St. Nicholas who gives presents to the children on December 6, is accompanied by Krampussen. These shaggy creatures look fearsome in their fur costumes and intricately carved wooden masks. Large bells, which have bound the Krampus to chains around the hips, announce the dark figures from afar.
Picture of Krampus and St. Nicholas in 1900’s (per Wikimedia)
Beneath the elaborate Krampus masks, young people often hide, reveling in the thrill of scaring passersby and playfully chasing their peers with their long rods afterwards. In this spirited tradition, they make great use of these impressive rods to heighten the excitement.
In some towns and villages, children take on a test of courage by attempting to provoke the Krampus without getting caught or beaten. This daring challenge adds an extra layer of fun and adventure to the festivities.
Modern Times: Around the Krampus runs, fear management seminars are offered to the population. In some places, the Krampus’s themselves have to submit a code of conduct. This code prohibits alcohol consumption and the beating of passers-by.
