This is a study of the origin of modern Christmas in ancient pagan
traditions, how the festival was adopted by Christianity,
and its evolution through history.
Miles includes descriptions of folk-lore related to
the Christmas season from a wide range of European countries,
including an extensive collection of folk songs.
It is important to learn about these traditions to remind ourselves
that before Christmas became a hyper-commercialized festival of
consumption, it was a joyous celebration of renewal and friendship.