The first christmas tree

The transition of faith in the heart of the forest

Henry Van Dyke

24 pages, parution le 25/06/2023

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Résumé

"The First Christmas Tree" by Henry Van Dyke is a captivating narrative set in the year 722, during the eve of Christmas. The story follows Winfried, later known as Saint Boniface, an English missionary determined to spread Christianity among the Germanic tribes. The tale begins in the cloister of Pfalzel, where Winfried shares his adventures and the challenges of converting the pagan tribes. He is joined by young Prince Gregor, who is inspired by Winfried's tales and chooses to accompany him on his mission. As they journey through the dense forests of Germany, they encounter the Thunder-oak, a sacred tree worshipped by the local tribes as a symbol of the god Thor. The tribes gather to perform a sacrificial ritual, intending to offer a young boy to appease their god. Winfried intervenes, stopping the sacrifice and challenging the power of Thor by felling the oak. Miraculously, the tree falls without harming anyone, symbolizing the triumph of Christianity over paganism. Winfried uses the wood to build a chapel and introduces the concept of the Christmas tree, a symbol of everlasting life and the birth of Christ. The story concludes with the tribes embracing the new faith, celebrating around the fir tree, and singing hymns of peace and goodwill.