In Haitian Vodou, Maman Brigitte is a Ghede loa and the wife of Baron Samedi. She is syncretized with Saint Brigid of Ireland.
In Alpine countries, the Krampus is a goat-like creature and companion of Saint Nicholas who punishes bad children while Saint Nicholas gives presents to good children. The Krampus’ punishments of children varied from simply spanking them to stuffing them in a wicker basket and carrying them off to the mountains, hell, or Spain. In Alpine countries, young men dress up as the Krampus and roam the streets, frightening children and urging them to be good.Saint Nicholas was an actual historical figure, a bishop of Myra (in modern-day Turkey), but the Krampus’ origins are uncertain. He is sometimes suggested to have originated as a son of Hel, the Norse goddess of the Underworld. Others assert that he is the male counterpart of Perchta, a goddess of spinning, weaving, children, and mothers.
