Two history graduates discuss the legend of Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the darker stories of Christmas. Santa Claus is known around the world for being the cheery spirit of Christmas, and for providing joy every year for children. The question asked in this episode is, what about Mrs. Claus? Why don't we know more about her? From the rise in the domesticity of Christmas to the oppression of women, the reasons for her lack of a backstory is explored in this episode. Also discussed is the various terrifying stories of 'evil Santa', and how the imagery for this malevolent spirit is different across the world, and the imaginative punishments he has for children who are on the naughty list.

Seasons Greetings from Bridget and Samira, we will see you in the New Year!

Presented by: Bridget Lindh and Samira Nicholson
Intro music: stantough - www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNm3Ggv01Ns
IG: @coldteahotgoss
URL: www.coldteahotgoss.com
email: [email protected]

Sources

‘The Revenge of Mrs. Santa Claus or Martha Stewart Does Christmas’ by Karal Ann Marling, American Studies, Vol.42 no.2 (2001) pp.133-138

Sexual Assault, Mrs. Claus and Mrs. Trump by Marleen S. Barr, CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College 

‘Who is Mrs. Claus’ Women’s Museum of California

‘Who Invented Mrs. Santa Claus? – Herstory 11’ by  iHeart Media - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXIy5a3Nwlg 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39816457-how-mrs-santa-claus-saved-christmas

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/dec/20/why-is-santa-red-google

https://www.amazon.com/Santa-Claus-Conquers-Martians-John/dp/B00950U416