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Krampus: The Devil Who Walks At Christmas

Long before Christmas became a season of warmth, lights, and goodwill, something darker stalked the winter nights.

In this episode of The Eclectic, we delve into the chilling folklore of Krampus — the horned figure said to punish the wicked while Saint Nicholas rewarded the good. Rooted in Alpine tradition and pagan mythology, Krampus embodies fear, morality, and the uneasy balance between reward and punishment.

We explore Krampus’s origins, his evolution through European folklore, the rise of Krampusnacht, and how this terrifying figure survived religious suppression to become a modern cultural icon. From ancient winter rituals to masked processions and devilish imagery, this episode asks why societies have always needed monsters — especially at Christmas.

Because sometimes, the most unsettling traditions are the ones meant to keep us in line.

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All sound effects used are from pixabay

Krampus - Wikipedia

The Origin of Krampus, Europe's Evil Twist on Santa | Smithsonian

Meet Krampus, the Christmas Devil Who Punishes Naughty Children | HISTORY

Christmas Traditions: Krampus – The German Christmas Devil