The Symbolic World 139 - Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer as Modern Mythmaking
Jan 26, 2021
Exploring the mythic significance of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, its transformation into a modern myth, and the symbolism in its story. The parallel between Rudolph's journey and the structure of the sleigh as well as the connections to the Christmas story. The contrast between heaven and earth, the ownership of Rudolph as commercial property, and its role in secular Christmas. Reflection on the subversive element in Christmas stories and their integration with the nativity of Christ.
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Rudolph's Surprising Origin Story
- Robert Louis May created Rudolph in 1939 as a Montgomery Ward promotional pamphlet, yet most people don't know his name.
- Jonathan Pageau notes Rudolph immediately entered common imagination and feels like folklore rather than a branded property.
How Modern Characters Become Mythic
- Mythic figures often feel authorless because a selection process over time removes mundane origins.
- Pageau compares Rudolph to Marvel heroes, saying broad handling by many agents gives a character ontological force.
Rejected Becomes Keystone
- Rudolph mirrors the archetype of the rejected element that becomes the keystone or capstone.
- His marginality becomes the very quality that allows him to lead and transform the sleigh's structure.