New Delhi: Merry Christmas! Christmas is here. People everywhere are celebrating or getting ready for Christmas. We often hear the phrase “Merry Christmas” more than “Happy Christmas”.
“Merry Christmas” usually expresses a lively and joyful celebration, while “Happy Christmas” suggests a more formal and quiet celebration. Read on to learn why we say “Merry Christmas” and how it differs from “Happy Christmas”.
The Evolution of Christmas Greetings: From “Happy” to “Merry”
When we say “Happy Easter” or “Happy Birthday”, we usually use those phrases. However, we say “Merry Christmas”, which is different. It’s unclear where the word “merry” comes from, but several interesting theories exist.
Historians and linguists are unsure why we say “Merry Christmas”. The greeting has been used in London since at least 1534. It appeared in a letter from Bishop John Fisher to Thomas Cromwell, chief minister to Henry VIII. Scholars also note that the 16th-century English carol “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” included the phrase.
The phrase gained popularity in 1843, partly due to the publication of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol“. That same year, it appeared on the first commercially sold Christmas card.
Even though “Merry Christmas” is common in the United States, it is not universally liked. For instance, Clement C Moore’s poem “The Night Before Christmas” ends with “A Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night”. The royal family wishes the British people a Happy Christmas each year in her annual broadcast.
A significant number of people in Great Britain prefer “Happy Christmas”. One reason could be the queen’s influence. There is a rumour that Queen Elizabeth liked to say “happy” more than “merry” because she thought “merry” sounded too boisterous and even suggested drinking.
A look at the words “happy” and “merry” supports this idea. Early church leaders in Great Britain may have advised followers to be happy instead of engaging in merrymaking. In this way, “Happy Christmas” sounds more reserved, while “Merry Christmas” suggests a more emotional and lively celebration.
No one knows why “Merry Christmas” became more popular in the United States. Some Christians feel it fits better, as it reflects the joy they should feel when celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
The article explores the historical and cultural reasons behind the differing usage of “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Christmas”. It delves into the origins of “Merry Christmas”, tracing its appearance in literature and correspondence back to the 16th century. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
