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Dr. Emily Zarka joins Christmas Clatter to talk about the dark foil to St. Nicholas, Krampus. Krampus brings beatings (and worse) to children rather than gifts, but how did the half-goat, half-demon monster become part of Yuletide tradition? Explore the real folkloric origins of this famous Alpine beast and find out why it's seen a recent rise in popularity.

Dr. Emily Zarka earned a Doctor of Philosophy in English from Arizona State University, specializing in British Romantic literature emphasizing the Gothic. Dr. Z approaches literature and film through monsters, applying the theory that human history is monster history. She is the writer and host of the PBS Digital Studios series MONSTRUM, which looks at the complex histories and motivations behind some of the world's most famous monsters. Her teaching experience includes literature, composition, film and media, and humanities classes.

Monstrum on PBS Storied YouTube Channel

Krampus YouTube Video

Yule Cat YouTube Video

Monstrum on Instagram

Dr. Emily Zarka on Twitter

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