The origins of the modern tale of Santa Claus are confusing and disjointed. The story of Santa's elves is quite a bit simpler, tracing its history back to the woman who brought us the novel "Little Women," Louisa May Alcott. The elves first appeared in a never-published book titled "Christmas Elves." The concept was carried on in "Godey's Lady's Book" in 1873, which, in 1850, also popularized Christmas trees. Elves were depicted as working for Santa under strict guidelines. Elves who failed to wrap a present were slain by Santa, and their families were disgraced and prevented from receiving compensation, benefits or gifts.
There is strong evidence that the elf story originates with the incorporation of Pagan beliefs into the Santa mythos. Most of these beliefs were fully integrated by the late 19th century, however they are not consistent across global barriers. Elves are the dominant Santa workforce in the United States, while Zwarte Piet delivers toys in children's shoes as Saint Nicholas' aide in Belgium and the Netherlands. Germany has Knecht Ruprecht or Belsnickel, both companions of St. Nick. Perhaps the most terrifying is Krampus from Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia. This terrifying creation, pictured at right, most likely originates in pre-Christian beliefs. He roams the streets on Christmas night dragging large chains that he will hurl towards children, scaring them to sleep for St. Nick. If a child would not sleep, Krampus would steal their toys.
-Professor Walter
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