What is the story behind The Holly and the Ivy?

What is the story behind The Holly and the Ivy?

“The Holly and the Ivy” is a traditional British folk Christmas carol, listed as number 514 in the Roud Folk Song Index. The song can be traced only as far as the early nineteenth century, but the lyrics reflect an association between holly and Christmas dating at least as far as medieval times.

When was The Holly and the Ivy made?

December 22, 1952
The Holly and the Ivy/Initial release

Who has performed The Holly and the Ivy?

Versions

Title Performer Release date
The Holly and the Ivy The Jack Halloran Singers November 1957
Holly and the Ivy Petula Clark 1958
The Holly and the Ivy Wally Stott, His Orchestra and Chorus 1959
The Holly Bears the Berry Jean Ritchie 1959

Where can i stream holly and the ivy?

Currently you are able to watch “The Holly and the Ivy” streaming on Kanopy for free.

How old is the carol The Holly and the Ivy?

The popular Christmas carol ‘The Holly and The Ivy’ first appeared in print in the early 19th century, when it was mentioned in William Hone’s 1823 book, Ancient Mysteries Described. But its origins lie much longer ago.

What happens at the end of holly and ivy?

In the space of a year, Nina and Melody meet and bond, Nina is re-diagnosed with cancer, Melody falls for Nina’s kids so much she offers to adopt them, and Nina happily agrees. This is a story that ends with Melody adopting Holly and Ivy and living happily as a family with them and Adam.

Why is Holly and Ivy a Christmas tradition?

Holly and ivy are two more evergreen plants that are closely associated with the festivities. Holly, ivy and other greenery were also used during winter solstice celebrations to ward off evil spirits and celebrate new growth. In pagan times, holly was thought to be the male plant and ivy the female.

What is the difference between holly and ivy?

Holly leaves are prickly. But the leaves of the lower twigs and branches are said to have more prickles than the those higher up the tree. Ivy (Hedera) has lobed leaves but entire leaves can be found on the projecting branches (which bear flowers and fruits) – again often high up and in the light.

Is Holly and Ivy sad?

Even though the film’s storyline is bittersweet as Melody, a former foster child herself, promises to take care of Nina’s kids in the event that something happens, Parrish said she was drawn to the story because “it has so much heart.” “I really love the idea of chosen family, that she meets these people and …

When did the Holly and the Ivy come out?

The song can be traced only as far as the early nineteenth century, but the lyrics reflect an association between holly and Christmas dating at least as far as medieval times. The lyrics and melody varied significantly in traditional communities, but the song has since become standardised.

Why do people believe in Holly and Ivy?

Additionally, holly trees and shrubs and the ornamental vine ivy were each believed to have magical properties. In many ancient cultures, the howling, icy winds in the dark nights of winter were believed to be ghosts and demons.

Why are Holly and Ivy used as Christmas decorations?

Holly ( Ilex) and ivy ( Hedera helix) have been used as winter decorations since ancient times. Adorning homes with these plants freshened the air and their greenery reminded occupants of the coming spring.

Why is the Ivy important in the UK?

Ivy, like holly, is an important evergreen edible plant species in UK woodland. One of only five woody climbers, like mistletoe it can form dense growths in canopies that can cause harm to the host. As with mistletoe it is linked with both Christmas and romance.