The carols we sing during the festive season are as much a tradition as the Christmas lights and the tree – but when did that tradition start? In this blog, we will explore the history of Christmas carols.
Their earliest origins
The origins of these carols lie in the pagan era, when people sang to celebrate the winter solstice. The actual word ‘carol’ has a French derivation and means a circular dance accompanied by a song. Many historians think that the Saturnalia festival is where the earliest carols can be traced back to.
When Christianity took over from paganism, it repurposed many pagan traditions – including winter singing. During the 9th and 10th centuries, European composers began to write songs with specifically Christian lyrics. They were, however, in Latin, which restricted their appeal.
Overcoming the language barrier
It was not until the 15th century that English language carols appeared. In 1426, a chaplain from Shropshire wrote of the 25 ‘caroles of Cristemas’ that were being sung.
Then, the progression of carols suffered a setback in the 17th century, when the festive season was banned by Cromwell. This was because the Puritans regarded it as pagan. People did sing carols during that period, but strictly in secret.
The point at which they truly entered the mainstream was the Victorian era. At this time, Christmas became a family celebration, with singing at the heart of it. This is when many famous carols – including Good King Wenceslas and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen – were composed.
They have remained central to Christmas ever since.
