Christmastide: Its History, Festivities, and Carols

This work offers a vivid walk through the origins and customs of the Christmas season, especially as they unfolded in England from medieval times onward. The author blends scholarly detail with a conversational tone, making the evolution of the holiday’s rituals—feasting, wassailing, ever‑green décor, and the rise of the Christmas tree—easy to follow for anyone curious about how today’s celebrations were shaped.

Interspersed with charming lithographs, the book presents excerpts from historic plays performed before royalty, snippets of early carols, and anecdotes about figures such as Edward I, Charles II, and the Lord of Misrule. A handy index of the songs and a collection of short verses let listeners hear the melodies that once filled Tudor halls, while the accompanying illustrations bring those festive scenes to life. Whether you’re new to holiday history or looking to deepen your appreciation of Christmas traditions, the volume delivers a warm, well‑researched portrait of the season’s past.