Stuff You Missed in History Class Christmas Triple-Feature: Stille Nacht, St. Nick & Scrooge
Dec 24, 2018
This podcast explores the enduring popularity and impact of 'A Christmas Carol', 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' poem, and 'Silent Night' song on the Christmas season. It delves into the creation process of 'A Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens and its impact, as well as the controversy surrounding the authorship of 'A Visit from St. Nicholas'. Additionally, it discusses the origins and history of the iconic song 'Silent Night', including a rare recording from 1914.
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A Christmas Carol's Origin
- Dickens's "A Christmas Carol" was inspired by a report on child labor and a visit to a ragged school.
- He initially planned a pamphlet but opted for fiction to reach a wider audience and due to financial needs.
Christmas Carol's Impact
- "A Christmas Carol" reflected and reinforced Victorian Christmas traditions like trees, turkeys, and cards.
- It also popularized "Merry Christmas" and the snowy Christmas ideal.
Financial Struggles
- Dickens's desire for high-quality book production for "A Christmas Carol" reduced his profits significantly.
- Despite the book's success, it took him over a decade to gain financial stability.