With Halloween fast approaching, it’s nearly the time of year where we try to carve are most artistic face out of a pumpkin. We’ll then set them outside our door with their orange glow, welcoming trick or treaters to our doors. But why exactly do we do this and what is the history behind this tradition?
The correct term is a Jack-o-lanterns. This name dates back to the 17th Century and originates from Britain. It’s during this period that ‘Jack-O-Lantern’ meant ‘Man With a Lantern’. But it also became a popular name for ignis fatuus. This is a natural phenomenon where flickering blue lights are seen over wetlands as well as the association with ghosts in folklore.
Fast forward to the 1800s. The term then became a popular name for something called a ‘turnip lantern’. Very similar to Pumpkins, the insides would be scooped out, the surface carved and a candle placed inside. It would then be a norm for Catholic children to carry these lanterns door-to-door. These would be a representation of the souls of the dead, while asking for soul cakes on Hallowmas.
The main reason for carving tradition is to ward off evil spirits. It was a method used by the Celts. During this period turnips would be used. They’d be hollowed out and then have a face carved into them. Following this, they’d be placed in a window, to keep the evil spirits from entering their homes. Around the 19th century, the tradition of carving pumpkins became popular all over the globe. The tradition then became purely associated with halloween.
The carving of vegetables has a long history which has evolved over time. We’d love to see your photos of your best carving. You can share them on Facebook or Twitter with us by searching Get Laid Beds.
