The History of The Grinch

Most of you will be familiar with the famous song “You’re a mean one Mr Grinch” but do you know the story behind the infamous villain of Christmas?

The Grinch first appeared in a 33-line illustrated poem by Dr.Seuss called “The Hoobub and the Grinch”, which was originally published in the May 1955 edition of Redbook magazine. Dr. Seuss began work on How the Grinch Stole Christmas! a couple of years later, around the beginning of 1957.

Who Is Dr Seuss?

Theodor Seuss Geisel was an American children’s author and cartoonist. He is known for his work writing and illustrating more than 60 books under the pen name Dr. Seuss. Some of his other famous titles include The Cat In A Hat, The Lorax, Horton Hears A Who and of course Green Eggs And Ham. With their whimsical characters and clever rhymes, Dr. Seuss books are some of the most iconic in children’s literature. (source Wikipedia)

There’s A Grinch In Every Family

The Grinch is traditionally know for his anti-Christmas spirit and is always portrayed as a bitter and ill-tempered character. Aided by his pet dog Max, the Grinch is set to ruin Christmas for all of the residents of Whoville. The Grinch has become an anti-icon of Christmas and the winter holidays, as a symbol of those who despise the holiday, much in the same nature as the earlier character of Ebenezer Scrooge.

Luckily this story has a happy ending.

Although the Grinch tries to ruin Christmas by stealing all the villages presents and food, the Who’s still sing cheerfully on Christmas morning as they show Mr Grinch that they are just happy to have each other.

The moral of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas is one we can all relate to. With strong messages about family and making the best from what you have. Christmas is a spirit, a state of mind, a joyous feeling to be shared with friends and loved ones.

There are lessons from The Grinch that, if we choose to learn from them, can change our world.

1. Care more for people than possesions

2. Show compassion and empathy to everyone including unsavoury characters and situations.

3. Respect one another’s cultures and traditions.

4. Share your joy-not your hatred.

5. Welcome others, regardless of differences.

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