This is a comprehensive History of the world\'s midwinter gift-givers, showcasing the extreme diversity in their depictions as well as the many traits and functions these characters share.
Nicholas, to a variety of secular figures who emerged throughout Europe following the Protestant Reforma.
Martin and St.
It tracks the evolution of these figures from the tribal priests who presided over winter solstice celebrations thousands of years before the birth of Christ, to Christian notables like St.
This is a comprehensive History of the world\'s midwinter gift-givers, showcasing the extreme diversity in their depictions as well as the many traits and functions these characters share