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The Many Faces of Santa
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The many faces of Santa, all around the world, have in fact undergone many changes over time. He is not just the chubby, cheerful, pot bellied old man dressed in red. The essence of “Santa Claus” might be the same through the world. He symbolizes the good and the act of charity, for children, for the sick and for the poor. This legendary figure has given hope to many people. Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas, Sinterklaas, Father Frost, Kris Kringle, Saint Basil, Saint Nicola, Pere Noel, Noel Baba, Hagios Nikolaos. There are as many names and customs, so suggests the many faces of Santa Claus.
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One of the first persons to draw the present-day and popular figure of Santa Claus was cartoonist Thomas Nast, with his illustration in Harper's Weekly in 1863. Originally, the figure of Santa Claus dates back to Saint Nicholas, the Archbishop of Myra in Asia Minor, a saint who was known for gift-giving, kindness and generosity. It is believed by many that he had magical powers. His remains are placed in the Basilica of San Nicola in Bari, Italy. 6th December is celebrated as the Saint Nicholas Day in many countries of Europe, when children and the poor are given gifts that day. In Great Britain, Santa Claus takes a slimmer version of the American one.
Santa Claus derives from the Dutch name of Sinterklaas, which in turn is derived from Sint Nicolaas. But the Dutch word for Santa Claus refers to Saint Nicholas who would give away gifts with his companion Black Peter. The earlier American image of Santa Claus was that of a jolly-looking elf traveling on a sledge and with reindeers. In Holland, Saint Nicholas arrives on 6th December on a ship. In Germany, while Saint Nicholas is accompanied by an assistant called Krampus, in France, it is Pere Noel who bestows gifts on children. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is the three kings who bring gifts, whereas in Switzerland, it the Christ Child who awards gifts to children. In Russia, it Grandfather Frost or Babooshka, who bears the gifts. The many faces of Santa. But the essence of Santa Claus remains the same every where. He still symbolizes love and hope for those who believe.
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