Министерство здравоохранения Республики Татарстан

Государственное автономное профессиональное образовательное

учреждение
«НИЖНЕКАМСКИЙ МЕДИЦИНСКИЙ КОЛЛЕДЖ»

Специальность 33.02.01 Фармация

Васильева Анна Вячеславовна

ИНДИВИДУАЛЬНЫЙ ПРОЕКТ

«Традиции и обычаи в Великобритании»

Руководитель: МуринаА.В.

Нижнекамск 2021г.
 Content
Introduction...............................................................................................................3
1. The story of Christmas in the UK.........................................................................6
1.1. Pre-Christian origins...........................................................................................6
1.2 Christmas Ban.....................................................................................................6
1.3 Victorian Era.......................................................................................................6
2. Preparing for Christmas.........................................................................................7
2.1 How to celebrate Christmas in the UK................................................................7
2.2 Christmas traditions in the UK............................................................................8
2.3 Christmas tree and home decoration...................................................................9
2.4 The tradition of giving gifts...............................................................................11
3. Christmas Day.....................................................................................................11
3.1 Christmas holiday table.....................................................................................11
3.2 How is the holiday going?.................................................................................13
CONCLUSION.......................................................................................................14
Sources....................................................................................................................15

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 Introduction

Traditions and customs are rightfully considered the cultural heritage of each
country. They are the basis of the life and development of any nation. These two
concepts reflect the habits and foundations of people, their identity and
individuality. Customs and traditions serve as a memory of the history of the
ancestors. They are adhered to and passed down from generation to generation.
Each nation has its own history, which is easier to understand, knowing the
traditions and customs that have been formed since ancient times. Many of them
date back centuries. One of the countries where they keep and honor their
traditions and customs is the United Kingdom. The culture of this country has such
traditions, the characteristics of which are sometimes difficult to express in words,
but you can not help but feel literally everywhere: in everyday life, art and religion.
The British are characterized by a longing for the past, and for them there is
nothing more precious than traditions and customs. It doesn't matter how they
came to be. The main thing is to stick to them in everything and always. Keeping
upwith tradition is the best way for Brits to feel comfortable. The Nordic character
encourages them to restrain their own feelings and emotions, but this does not
indicate unfriendliness. While the world may be amazed at the strangeness and
obsolescence of some of the unquestionable British traditions, the indigenous
people will not even think about modernizing them or changing them in the name
of meeting world standards. The holidays and traditions of Great Britain are a
constant, a matter of honor and pride in their origin. English conservatism is often
spoken of, and the British commitment to tradition is evident not only in politics,
but literally at every step, in the most ordinary life. In such an economically
developed country as the United Kingdom, the old folk clothing that has fallen out
of everyday use has long been forgotten. But in solemn occasions, medieval attire
is used. Vintage costumes are worn by members of the royal family during the
coronation and by parliamentary officials on the opening day of the session.
Ancient ceremonies and customs accompany all the activities of the English
Parliament - one of the oldest legislative institutions in Europe. The king and
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queen go to the opening of parliament in a state carriage drawn by four gray
horses, accompanied by an escort of horse guards. In the House of Lords, peers in
purple robes trimmed with ermine await them. The session of Parliament begins
with the King's throne speech. Traditions are especially firmly preserved in the
social life of the peoples of the British Isles. Traditions - first of all, the established
order of what and when you can do.
Learning the traditions of Great Britain is important for all English language
learners. For me personally, this topic is also relevant, because when learning
English, it is important to understand how this people lives. The need for a deeper
study of the world of native speakers is one of the most pressing problems today .
The need to introduce people to the world culture is becoming more acute.
Mastering a foreign language is an introduction to a new culture, a new way of
thinking, new ways of formulating one's thoughts. This means that learning a
foreign language cannot be effective if it is not based on an appropriate national
background. Without an understanding of socio-economic systems, knowledge of
social and political cultures, and the study of historical and cultural traditions that
have shaped the way of thinking of those people with whom you will interact, it is
impossible to learn language as a means of communication.
Practical significance: The results of the study allow you to expand your
knowledge of regional studies and can be used in English lessons
Relevance: For me personally, this topic is also relevant, because when
learning English, it is important to understand how these people live. The need to
introduce people to the world culture is becoming more acute. Mastering a foreign
language is an introduction to a new culture
Object of research: Traditions and customs in the UK
Subject of the study: The study of Christmas traditions in the UK.
Goal: To increase the interest of classmates in the country of the language
being studied.

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 Project objectives:

1. Study the available literature on the celebration of Christmas in the UK;

2. Explore the history of Christmas traditions in the UK;
3. Prove the need to study folk traditions in order to better understand the
English language.

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 1. The story of Christmas in the UK
1.1. Pre-Christiаn origins

For thousands of years, the winter solstice was celebrated – the shortest day
of the year, when the pagans celebrated the beginning of the rebirth of the Sun.
All pagan festivals included the distribution of gifts, colored lights to ward
off evil spirits, festive dishes, and decorated trees. The modern Christmas tree also
dates back to the worship of sacred trees: the Druids had an oak tree, the Egyptians
a palm tree, and the Romans a fir tree.
The history of Christmas in England began in 597 AD with the arrival of St.
Augustine from Rome, who preached Christian doctrine and converted pagans to
the new faith. Gradually, pagan holidays gave way to Christian ones. However, the
custom remained to give gifts, prepare lavish dinners and decorate trees.

1.2 Christmas Ban

In the XVII century, Oliver Cromwell came to power. He condemned

Christmas for its pagan roots and legally banned the "sinful holiday". The clergy
were not allowed to decorate churches and read Christmas sermons. All festive
events were canceled, and people were required to work as on normal days.
The ban has been in place for almost 20 years. It was abolished by King
Charles II, who ascended the throne in 1660.

1.3 Victorian Era

During the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901), the holiday gained great
popularity and previously unthinkable scope. It was then that many traditions of
celebrating Christmas appeared, which are still alive to this day.

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 In 1843, the first Christmas cards were printed, and in 1847, the confectioner
Tom Smith released crackers with sweets and surprises. The Christmas tree also
gained particular popularity in the Victorian era. In 1848, The Illustrated London
News published a drawing of the royal family around a Christmas tree with gifts.
Prince Albert sent decorated Christmas trees to schools and barracks. Soon, the
tradition of the royal family permeated all levels of society. By 1880, it was
necessary to check in advance the number of Christmas trees in the suburbs of
London: they could not be enough for everyone. At the same time, the first
artificial Christmas trees appeared: they were made from goose feathers attached to
the base-the "trunk".
Charles Dickens ' famous novel A Christmas Carol (1843) gave Christmas a
new meaning: the holiday was perceived not only as a religious holiday, but also as
a family one.

2. Preparing for Christmas

2.1 How to celebrate Christmas in the UK

The date of the celebration of Christmas was chosen on December 25 due to

the fact that on this day Jesus Christ was born, hence the name of the holiday
itself-Christmas. Compared to other countries where Christmas is celebrated on the
Gregorian calendar on January 7, the United Kingdom continues to celebrate
Christmas on the Julian calendar, that is, on December 25.
There is also a version that the date of the celebration of Christmas is
associated with the winter solstice. On this day, the Romans celebrated the
birthday of the invincible sun – Dies Natalis Solis Invicti. It is believed that Jesus
brought light to the world, so he was born on the solstice.
There is a song called "12 days of Christmas" (Twelve), which is sung about
what happened to a person on each Christmas day or what was given to him on this
day, starting from December 25 and ending on January 5. In the UK, it is
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customary to celebrate the 12 days after Christmas by going to visit neighbors or
relatives. The 12 days after Christmas are still called "Yuletide".
The last day of Yule is called "Christmas Eve", "Twelfth Night" or
"Epiphany Eve". The Epiphany is celebrated the day after Christmas Eve. On this
day, the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist is celebrated, as
well as the wise men who visited him – the Three Kings.
The Christmas holidays end forty days after the Birth of Christ, and this day
is called "Candlemas". The English name of the holiday comes from the phrase
"Candle Mass". This name was given in connection with the fact that on this day
during the church service, the rite of consecration of candles takes place.

2.2 Christmas traditions in the UK

Christmas in England is a public holiday. On this day, the whole country is

resting, schools and most businesses are closed. Christmas in the UK is usually
celebrated in the family circle – this is a time when loved ones tend to get together,
no matter how far apart they may be. People who are far from the church celebrate
Christmas as a secular holiday, and religious families observe church traditions.

Advent

Advent is the preparation for Christmas, a period that begins 4 weeks before
the holiday. This is a time of waiting for Christmas, a time to remember the true
meaning of this holiday. The church is preparing to celebrate the coming of Christ
in his incarnation, and all the sermons are dedicated to the imminent birth of Jesus.
Christians observe the Christmas fast: they do not eat meat, dairy and some other
products. This is also a time when spiritual fasting is especially important: the
church reminds people of the great importance of Christian virtues, calls on them
to abandon slander, lies and debauchery.

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 Each of the four Sundays of Advent is dedicated to a specific theme, which
is revealed during the reading of the Holy Scriptures at church services or in the
home circle.
An important tradition for Christians is the Advent candles. Traditionally,
they are arranged in a circle in a wreath of evergreen branches, symbolizing
eternity. On the first Sunday, a purple candle is lit, dedicated to Isaiah and the
other prophets who predicted the coming of Jesus. This candle symbolizes the
expectation of the coming Messiah. On the second Sunday of Advent, another
purple candle is lit, which symbolizes the love, faith, and manger of Christ. On the
third Sunday, a pink candle is lit – the "Shepherds ' Candle". It symbolizes joy, and
the third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday (from the Latin word gaudete
– "rejoice"). On the fourth Sunday of Advent, the "Angel Candle" is lit, which
symbolizes peace and also represents John the Baptist. On Christmas Eve, a central
candle called the "Jesus Candle" is lit. Its white color represents purity, and it is a
symbol of Christ, who came to illuminate the world.

2.3 Christmas tree and home decoration

The custom of decorating the Christmas tree at home appeared not so long
ago. The pioneers of this custom in England were Queen Victoria and Prince
Albert, who presented a decorated Christmas tree as a gift to children.
Usually the Christmas tree is decorated with toys, garlands, tinsel, angels,
sweets and candles. Basically, the Christmas tree is decorated in green, red and
gold colors
Another tradition is the decoration of the entrance doors with wreaths with
bells. It is believed that this tradition has appeared since pagan times and it means
that with the arrival of winter, the Sun and the Earth die, and in their place comes
an evil spirit.

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 Loud noises could scare him away, and the ringing of bells could help. Now
the bell marks the Birth of Jesus Christ. In our time, the ringing of bells informs
the faithful about the beginning of the midnight church service.
Another important tradition for children is to hang stockings or socks over
the fireplace or on the wall. In return, the children leave treats in the form of a meat
pie or cookies with milk for Santa Claus and carrots for the reindeer from his team.
It is believed that this way they will appease the red-cheeked grandfather with a
white beard in a red hat, and he will leave them a gift.
The traditional Christmas product "Christingle" (Christ Light – the Light of
Christ) is very popular throughout the UK. To make it from half an orange
(symbolizing the round world), clean the middle and put a candle inside (symbol of
light), then decorate the orange with a red ribbon (symbol of blood) and stick four
sticks that "look" in all parts of the world.

(1.рис.)

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 2.4 The tradition of giving gifts

Gifts to family members at Christmas in England are given according to a

pre-cast lot and they should all cost about the same. However, the British are very
fond of giving gifts, regardless of their cost, so in England there are "Christmas
loans" that help to realize the dream of a loved one.
Father Christmas learns about the wishes of children from their letters.
Children write letters in which they tell about their wishes, then they are thrown
into the fireplace and burned, and the smoke already conveys their wishes to the
addressee.
A few days before the holiday, boxes or boxes for donations are installed in
front of churches, the contents of which are distributed to the poor on December
26, so no one is left without a gift at Christmas. This day is called "Boxing Day".
On Christmas holidays, people always send each other Christmas cards. The
choice of each card is approached with the mind and soul, so as not to offend the
recipient. They are usually placed under the Christmas tree or sent by mail to their
relatives or friends in other cities.
In our time, another symbol of Christmas has become sweaters, mittens,
scarves and hats of Christmas colors. These items of clothing symbolize warmth
and usually people give them to the most important people as a sign of their love
for them.

3. Christmas Day
3.1 Christmas holiday table

The culmination of the celebration in the United Kingdom is a festive table

with the family. The Christmas table in England must necessarily be rich, as this
affects what the whole year will be like.

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 Before you sit down at the table, there is a custom to "break" Christmas
Crackers in the form of sweets. They are located near each device on the table and
two people have to break it from both edges of the cracker. Inside them is a joke
message, a souvenir with jokes or paper crowns that all guests should wear.
Another old tradition is the Christmas log, which was prepared a year before
Christmas, and on the eve of the head of the family brought it into the house and
set it on fire in the fireplace or hearth. The log had to be so thick that it could burn
all 12 days of Yule. Now this log is symbolized by a very thick candle.
The main dish of the festive table is a baked stuffed turkey.Turkey is the
main dish for Christmas. An important tradition is connected with it: someone has
to pull out a special bone that has the shape of the letter Y. If two people are lucky
at once, they will have to drag the bone until it breaks. The one with the larger
piece of bone left makes a wish.

(2.рис)

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 Аlso on the table should be Christmas bread, made according to a special
recipe. Bread is decorated with herbs and ritual patterns. It is cut in half and the
other half is distributed to beggars or fed to animals and birds.
Sometimes a button, a ring, or beans are baked in the bread. Each of these
"fillings" has its own meaning: a ring-for marriage, a button-for poverty, beans -
for success and happiness.
A must-have on the Christmas table is also a mini sausage wrapped in bacon
, Yorkshire pudding with gravy in vegetables .
For dessert, Christmas Pudding and mince pies. Sweet pudding is decorated
the form of gravy sauce and roast turkey with
with candied fruits and dried fruits. Before serving, it is poured with cognac
or rum and then set on fire. The main drink on the Christmas table is punch, but it
can be a non-alcoholic cocktail of eggs and milk, cherry liqueur or wine.
Another Christmas treat is a caramel cane. Traditionally, caramel canes are
prepared with a mint flavor, but there are also strawberry candies. The red and
white color of the treats is also complemented by bright green or yellow stripes.
But the classic candy cane is still one of the main symbols of Christmas for many
people.

3.2 How is the holiday going?

A tradition is listening to the Queen's speech. It takes place on December 25

at 15: 00 GMT and all people gather at the TV to watch "Her Majesty's Gracious
Speech".
After Her Majesty's speech, all the family members exchange gifts, talk or
play board games. After dinner, many Britons go out to continue celebrating
Christmas in mass celebrations.
Members of charities perform "Christmas Carols" to collect donations. They
gather in groups, go to their neighbors, and sing for them. And on Christmas Eve,
they put on performances in Trafalgar Square, where the main Christmas tree,
brought from Norway, is located.
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 This is how Christmas is celebrated in England, and in the UK as a whole.
The British take a very responsible approach to this holiday and follow almost all
the traditions. The best time to visit England is the time before Christmas, because
then the Spirit of Christmas reigns in the air, and magic happens in the country and
everything is transformed into a fairy tale.

CONCLUSION

Christmas is one of the most long-awaited holidays, which both children and
adults are looking forward to. For someone, Christmas gifts are important, and
someone hopes for the fulfillment of a cherished desire. These days, it is
customary to wish each other happiness, joy and kindness.

The feast of the Nativity of Christ is based on the Holy Scripture about the
birth of Jesus Christ. I chose this topic because I think that in Russia children know
too little about the traditions of celebrating Christmas.

Having prepared the material about the traditions of this holiday and shared
it with my classmates, I hope that the children will remember this information very
well. I believe that if you have more information about the Christmas holidays,
then the awareness of the holiday will be more complete and you will be more
interested in celebrating this holiday.

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 Sources
1. I. A. Walsh Publishing House: Anthology of the book Great Britain
.Customs and traditions publishing house : two thousand nine
.https://avidreaders.ru/book/great-britain-customs-and-traditions-
velikobritaniya.html
2. Anna Pavlovskaya 5 O'clock and other traditions of England
https://mybook.ru/author/anna-pavlovskaya/5oclock-i-drugie-tradicii-anglii/
Year of publication: 2014
3. Мороз В.В. "Большая детская энциклопедия празднования Нового года
и Рождества".-М., 2010 – 382 с.
4. Матвеенко Э. Английские традиции Рождества: из прошлого в
настоящее. – М, 2010 – 32 с.
5. https://www.syl.ru/article/167556/new_rojdestvo-v-anglii-traditsii-simvolyi-
istoriya-kak-otmechayut-rojdestvo-v-anglii

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Source: https://simplenglish.ru/rozhdestvo-v-anglii

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