A Righte Merrie Christmasse: The Story of Christ-Tide

Step into a richly illustrated tour of Christmas as it was celebrated across centuries. The author weaves together scholarly research and lively anecdotes, exploring everything from early medieval debates over the exact date of Christ’s birth to the colorful pageantry of William VIII’s court. Readers will meet the bustling markets of medieval London, the mysterious “Lord of Misrule,” and the heartfelt charity traditions that kept the season warm for the poor.

Beyond royal splendor, the book delves into the folk customs that still echo today: wassailing orchards, the bright glow of the Yule log, and the playful riddles of guisers and mummers. It also gathers beloved carols and verses, revealing the stories behind the “Cherry‑Tree Carol,” the “Holly and Ivy” melody, and the curious legends of the Glastonbury thorn. By the close of the first act, listeners will have a vivid sense of how history, myth, and community blended to shape the merry holiday we know.