Whether in Mesopotamia third Century BC. or in ancient Rome in honor of the god Saturn: All of these pre-Christian public festivals have something in common with today's carnival! Anyone could celebrate and to report without restrictions to speak, as the existing social order was suspended. Slave and master, mighty, and sometimes even the second subject exchanged roles. Just as today, the fools with the help of costumes, wigs and makeup to "slip a different skin". The town halls "assault" and instead of the Mayor "Rule" until Ash Wednesday.
There are various theories about the origin of the carnival. First, to its origins in the pagan customs of the Celts, Romans and Greeks have, on the other only in the Christian celebration of the carnival. Imagine that the pagan traditions and customs in the Christian context were adopted and integrated .. In spring, the Celts dressed up with masks of fertility deities to drive away the evil winter demons. The pagan masks and panels are retained in the Christian era, but the symbols have been improvements made to the Christian.
In medieval Europe of 12 Century to the end of the 16th century were organized in churches and monasteries "fool Feste" - first in early January, the Epiphaniastag, then in the carnival. Once a year were allowed to break away with the strict rules of the monastic and religious life, are so derided even - as in the donkey show. All participants wore animal costumes, a "fool's bishop" was the fair. Instead of measuring voice sounded ambiguous songs and animal sounds in the church. The Church suffered the degenerating festivals as cautionary negative example, in the church hierarchy on its head and rituals were made fun of. Shall replace the lower clerical rank and privileges of the higher clergy. Even a "fool's Pope" was chosen. The inhabitants of the cities were involved by the processions on the feast.
(Source: Carnival, carnival, carnival - symbolism and meaning) Tomorrow I will address the issue of "carnival" in conclusion.
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