Krampus is a mythical creature from Alpine folklore, often seen as a counterpart to Saint Nicholas. While Saint Nicholas rewards well-behaved children with gifts, Krampus is known for punishing those who have been naughty.
The specific actions Krampus takes against his victims can vary by story and region. Generally, Krampus is depicted as a fearsome figure with horns, fangs, and a long tongue, carrying chains and a heavy sack. In many tales, he’s said to abduct misbehaving children, taking them away to his lair, which is often described as a dark, unfriendly place.
Some stories suggest that he might whip naughty children with birch branches to teach them a lesson. Others imply that he simply instills fear, serving as a reminder to stay on the nice list. In extreme tales, he is even said to drag the worst offenders down to Hell. The legend of Krampus serves not only as a supernatural deterrent to encourage good behavior during the holiday season but also as a reminder of the balance of rewards and consequences.