Myers, Santino, Whitaker, Warner, and Wills on American Rituals and Rights of Passage

“Christmas Unwrapped: Santa Claus as an Icon of Grace,” examines the American Christmas in terms of specific icons and representations. Significance is placed on the capitalistic aspect of the American Christmas. Myers suggests that Santa Claus is the main icon of Christmas, portraying a different type of grace compared to Christianity teachings. Myers focuses on the two icons of grace, Christ and Santa Claus, while analyzing their symbolic functions in American society. Realities of the icons set forth complex meanings. Viewing Santa as an icon of grace entails the self-interest aspect of the Christmas season as a central virtue. Christianity views self-interest as a vice in most circumstances. More is better in the symbolic gift bearing image of Santa Claus. Concerning Christianity, comprehending definitive reality advocates life as a gift given in abundance. Santa is a commercial icon. There are several contradictions associated with the symbolism of Santa. He may portray a commercial icon, but he also embodies a familial aspect, all the while promoting the consumption of commodities. Santa Claus as icon persuades people to purchase, while allowing them to practically forget that it is a commercial exchange. This represents what is referred to as mediation of a contradiction. Santa is also seen as an ideological icon. This article proceeds to discuss the history of the Santa Claus narrative. The functions and images of Santa have changed over the years. Myers refers to this transformation of Santa as a “shape-shifter.” This analysis presents Santa Claus as icon of grace, gift giver interceding between inferior and superior groups, mediating figure, and supernatural Saint Nicholas. Through such symbolic functions, Santa‘s mythic status is reinforced. The Santa version of grace contradicts with the Christianity concept of grace. The Santa Claus notion of grace defines capitalistic culture, while the Christianity perception of grace is defined by individuals values from within.

Santino‘s “Halloween: Rite of Season, Rite of Passage,” discusses the pleasing delights of the celebration of Halloween, while emphasizing the distinct ritual aspects. This article displays how Halloween rituals serve a specific role. The celebration of harvest, the joining of friends and family, and the development of new phases of life take place. Santino points out the importance of Halloween. The explanation of how these rituals appeal to our unconscious past lays on the symbolic aspects of Halloween and its significance. Santino emphasizes how even though Halloween is the eve of All Saints Day, the children, often the focused group of revelers (however, in America, this holiday has become highly celebrated by adults) show low recognition of the connection.