The Story of the Georgian Christmas Carol
Event
Overview
When we raise our voices in song each Christmas, we join a tradition that has danced through centuries.
The word carol comes from the Old French carole, meaning “a song for dancing.” In the Middle Ages,
carols were not exclusively for Christmas — they celebrated spring, harvest, and joy itself.
But in the 17th century, joy was briefly outlawed. Under Puritan rule Christmas celebrations were banned, and the carols fell silent. When the ban was lifted in 1660 old customs slowly returned--though carols were first heard again not in churches but in taverns and around firesides, tied to wassailing and winter merriment.
Then, one by one, the carols we know and love began to emerge — each with its own extraordinary story. In this talk, we will be looking at those written and performed during the Georgian period.
But in the 17th century, joy was briefly outlawed. Under Puritan rule Christmas celebrations were banned, and the carols fell silent. When the ban was lifted in 1660 old customs slowly returned--though carols were first heard again not in churches but in taverns and around firesides, tied to wassailing and winter merriment.
Then, one by one, the carols we know and love began to emerge — each with its own extraordinary story. In this talk, we will be looking at those written and performed during the Georgian period.