Halloween: Between Celtic Roots and American Triumph
Once limited to Anglo-Saxon countries, Halloween has firmly entered the Western collective imagination as the ultimate festival of the dead. Although today it brings to mind costumes, candy, and pumpkins, its origins are far older, rooted in mystical and rural traditions.
The Celtic Origins of Halloween
The Halloween festival traces back to Samhain, a Celtic celebration from over two thousand years ago that marked the end of the harvest and the start of the dark season. It was seen as a transitional period where the boundary between the living and the dead became unclear. Communities would light bonfires and wear masks to ward off roaming spirits.
Christian Influence and Evolution
With Europe's Christianization, Samhain gradually integrated into the religious calendar. In the 8th century, the Church moved All Saints' Day to November 1st to align with pagan festivities.
Preservation in Ireland
In Ireland, where the tradition has stayed strong, festivals honoring the dead have continued in various forms.
Transformation in the United States
During the 19th century, amid large Irish emigration to the United States, Halloween evolved into the celebration recognized today.
"The Halloween festival has its roots in Samhain, a Celtic celebration dating back over two millennia, which marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of the dark season."
"Communities would light bonfires and wear masks to ward off wandering spirits."
"In the 8th century, the Church moved All Saints' Day to November 1st to coincide with pagan celebrations."
Author's summary: Halloween evolved from ancient Celtic Samhain rites through Christian adaptation and Irish-American reinvention into a global celebration symbolizing the passage between life and death.