Episode #101 – Who is the Real Santa Claus?

The Santa Claus legend may be one of the most sturdy pieces of mythology in modern times. While other magical creatures have faded from our common lore, the legend of Santa Claus has only grown. However, the evolution of this beloved holiday character has been downright strange. How did a lank and serious Bishop from Anatolia become the jolly bringer gifts we know today? Tune in and find out how pickled kids, Dwight Shrute, and horned gods all play a role in the story.

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St. Nicholas grabs a kid by the hair and whisks him away from slavery!
The image of Santa Clause in 1821’s “The Children’s Friend”
Thomas Nast’s famous illustration “Santa Claus and His Works”
Another classic Nast Santa