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Erzgebirgische Christ- und Mettenspiele
Ein Versuch zur Rettung alten Volksgutes
"Erzgebirgische Christ- und Mettenspiele" by Max Wenzel is a collection of folk plays and poetry written in the early 20th century. This work aims to preserve and compile various traditional Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains) Christmas plays and related folk poetry that were previously scattered or forgotten, highlighting their cultural significance. Through these narratives, the text explores the richly layered history and practices surrounding Christmas celebrations in the region, drawing on both religious and cultural elements. The opening of the book sets the stage for a discussion about the transformation of folk traditions into performance art, particularly during the Christmas season. It begins with the author reflecting on the deep-seated love of the people for their customs and how these traditions have evolved, often blending sacred and secular elements. Wenzel notes the historical context of Christmas plays, their dramatic origins, and the inclusion of familiar characters like Joseph, Mary, and angels, all while maintaining a light-hearted and humorous tone that resonates with the folk humor of the region. This introduction effectively captures the book's essence and significance as a repository of Erzgebirge's traditional Christmas heritage.