"Meet the Thirteen Yule Lads, Iceland’s Own Mischievous Santa Clauses"
Rachel Nuwer
Published DECEMBER 17, 2013
Summary:
An Icelandic cultural spin on Christmas, the 13 Yule Lads (elves) represent each of the 13 days leading up to Christmas. These Yule Lads have very different personalities, and must all be appeased in order to have an enjoyable holiday. Children throughout Iceland place their shoes on the windowsills every night, hoping that the Yule Lads will bring them candy in reward for good behavior.
Thoughts:
I believe that this spin on Christmas, when compared to it's American counterpart, is actually very interesting! The Yule Lads, all having different characters, serve somewhat as idols of which the children can pick heir favorites. The many days of gift receipt are also a bonus! Who doesn't want candy?
Cultural Connection:
The Yule Lads, in my opinion, summarize the culture of Iceland quite well. The widespread acceptance of Christmas reflects upon religious aspects of culture as well as the phenomena of "pop culture." The twist, however, provides us with more details of Icelandic culture. The Yule Lads, being elves, also depict widespread acceptance of supernatural entities among the island.
An Icelandic cultural spin on Christmas, the 13 Yule Lads (elves) represent each of the 13 days leading up to Christmas. These Yule Lads have very different personalities, and must all be appeased in order to have an enjoyable holiday. Children throughout Iceland place their shoes on the windowsills every night, hoping that the Yule Lads will bring them candy in reward for good behavior.
Thoughts:
I believe that this spin on Christmas, when compared to it's American counterpart, is actually very interesting! The Yule Lads, all having different characters, serve somewhat as idols of which the children can pick heir favorites. The many days of gift receipt are also a bonus! Who doesn't want candy?
Cultural Connection:
The Yule Lads, in my opinion, summarize the culture of Iceland quite well. The widespread acceptance of Christmas reflects upon religious aspects of culture as well as the phenomena of "pop culture." The twist, however, provides us with more details of Icelandic culture. The Yule Lads, being elves, also depict widespread acceptance of supernatural entities among the island.