Contested Christmas

Most would agree that Christmas should be compounded of beautifully decorated homes smelling of pine and baked goods; good cheer with family and friends; quiet religious observance; special foods; glittering lights to make a snowy street magical; joyous music; and gifts to bring surprise and delight. 

This is to be obtained, of course, without overspending, without losing one’s temper or one’s car keys while pushing through the mall, without the children whining for some foolish toy, without drunken parties, without burning oneself in the kitchen while grimly cooking up a feast, and without falling off the ladder while hanging the decorations. 

Why, every year, do we imagine this is possible? 

Here an eminent medieval historian combines modern social commentary with the history of Christmas celebration's origins for an engaging look at the holiday we keep hoping we will finally get right.