The first christmas tree

The transition of faith in the heart of the forest

Henry Van Dyke

24 pages, parution le 13/03/2023

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Résumé

"The First Christmas Tree" by Henry Van Dyke is a captivating tale set in the year 722, during the eve of Christmas in the dense forests of Germany. The story follows Winfried, an English missionary known as Boniface, who is on a mission to convert the pagan tribes of the region to Christianity. As the narrative unfolds, Winfried and his companions journey through the treacherous forest, facing natural and supernatural challenges. They arrive at the Thunder-oak of Geismar, where the local tribes are preparing to sacrifice a child to the god Thor. Winfried intervenes, stopping the sacrifice and demonstrating the power of the Christian God by felling the sacred oak with divine assistance. In its place, he introduces the fir tree as a symbol of peace and the birth of Christ, thus converting a pagan ritual into a Christian celebration. The story beautifully illustrates the clash and eventual blending of pagan and Christian traditions, highlighting themes of faith, courage, and transformation. Through Winfried's actions, the narrative emphasizes the power of love and the message of peace brought by the birth of Christ, ultimately leading to the acceptance of Christianity among the forest tribes.