Krampn Your Style?

If you go down to the woods today be sure of a big surprise!

Sherwood forest was recently invaded by some very unusual, quite terrifying, folklore creatures known as The Krampus.

The Krampus folklore, dating back to pre -Christian times, originates from the alpine regions of Europe. The Krampus worked alongside Saint Nicholas, the original father Christmas. Saint Nicholas would visit the good children, rewarding them with gifts and the Krampus would visit the naughty children, who would face consequences of their misbehaviour.

Sparking fear in the eyes of children the Krampus is best described as demon and goat like in appearance, with long horns curling back on his head. Hooved feet and a body covered in shaggy fur, with a long, pointed tongue, claws and fangs. Walking upright and dressed in chains and bells. The Krampus is said to carry birch whips to beat naughty children and a large sack or basket reserved for the truly wicked. It’s not surprising to discover that the word Krampus comes from the Bavarian word Krampn, meaning “dead” or “rotten.

For the two years running, the Krampus have descended upon Sherwood Forest for a weekend to feast upon the magical energies of the Major Oak and make it their home for the Springtime…unless they are chased out. On day one the Krampus invade the forest chasing out the Sheriff of Nottingham and Robin Hood and the good people of Sherwood. Day two involves a finale where the people make as much noise as possible using pots, pans and drums to chase out the Krampus and reclaim their forest. 

This Krampus invasion at Sherwood Forest coincided with the traditional Anglo-Saxon wassailing ceremony signifying new growth and chasing away the evil spirits as the forest awakens from winter. In this case the evil spirits include the Krampus. 

Fortunately, the Krampus found in Sherwood Forest recently were not quite as terrifying as depicted in the folklore and were quite happy to stop, chat and even pose for selfies. The role-playing group that brought this event to Sherwood Forest are called The Whitby Krampus Run and can be found bringing this fascinating folklore to life at other venues and events.

For more info about them, visit their Facebook page! (Whitby Krampus Run | Facebook)

Check out some images of the event below courtesy of the photographer Neal Rylatt

By Jarvis Yr 7 

Carre’s Grammar School

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