medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
Quoting "Halverson, Jim" <[log in to unmask]>:
>
> Can anyone confirm or deny the truth of this theory? Several people I know
> have received an email with the following explanation for the song, The
> Twelve Days of Christmas.
>
>Apply a little deconstruction.
1. Folklore abounds in pseudo-etymologies of which this is sounds like a
variety.
2. What in the alleged catecism is there which would have to be hidden from
protestants? It is all pretty acceptable to protestants.
3. What is the connection between a partridge in a pear tree and Jesus Christ?
Especially, since partridges don't live in trees they live on the ground--at
least in America. Now apply this to the other verses: what do five gold rings
have to do with the Torah? Wouldn't five rolled parchments have been better?
Etc.
4. Look at the unifying theme: My truelove gave these to me. God gave them to
me? Okay, but not on the twelve days of Christmas.
5. Finally, did the truelove give only two turtledoves on the second day, or did
the truelove give a partridge in a pear tree and two turtledoves. The latter
would not work in this context, but is the more likely meaning of the song.
Sounds like urban legend to me.
Look no further than the song for its meaning. It is simple and shallow.
That's why we love it.
--V. K. Inman
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