ppt made by the language assistant at La Escribana high school ieslaescribana.wordpress.com

1. Before Christmas
The early Roman Empire celebrated the winter
solstice, which is shortest day of the year (usually 21st
or 22nd December).
The Romans – before Christianity –
worshipped a Persian god called
Mithra who was born on
25th December. He was the sun
god, or the 'bringer of light'.
His 'rebirth' after the solstice
signified the beginning of longer
days and more sunlight.

2. Before Christmas – part 2
The Romans celebrated the resurrection of Mithra, the winter
solstice, and the god Saturn at the same time. The festival
was called Saturnalia and lasted from 17th - 23rd December. It
could be celebrated anywhere in Europe, and people ate
feasts and exchanged gifts.
Germanic Pagans had
a similar festival called
'Yule'.
When Christianity took
over the Roman Empire,
they absorbed both
festivals and renamed it
'Christ's Mass', or
'Christmas'.

3. Christmas
in the UK

4. Today Christmas is a similar celebration, but usually
without the religious aspect. In the UK it is a family event –
though younger people now ignore this, and instead they
value the presents more. We have forgotten the true
history of Christmas.
Some typical things you would see in England at
Christmas...

7. It is very common for children and adults to sing
in the streets. You have probably heard some
English Christmas carols!

8. Like the Romans, we also
tend to eat a lot of food at
Christmas...