Questions and Answers
'Twas the Night Before Christmas is a popular poem written by?
What does 'Twas mean in the context of the poem?
'Twas is a contraction of 'it was'.
What is the significance of stockings in the poem?
The stockings were hung in hopes that St. Nicholas would fill them with presents.
What were the children dreaming of?
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What does a 'kerchief' refer to in the poem?
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What does 'clatter' refer to?
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What does the father do when he hears the noise?
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The moon on the breast of the new fallen ______ gave a luster of mid-day.
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What did the father see when he looked out the window?
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Who does the narrator realize is driving the sleigh?
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What does 'coursers' refer to in the context of the poem?
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Study Notes
Overview of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas
- A well-known Christmas poem, widely appreciated in the United States.
- Written by Clement Clarke Moore in the 1800s.
Opening Lines
- The poem begins referencing Christmas Eve, the night before Christmas.
- The term 'Twas is a contraction of "it was"; "thro'" is a contraction of "through."
- Describes a quiet home where no one, not even a mouse, is awake.
Christmas Stockings Tradition
- Stockings are traditionally hung by the chimney in hopes of gifts from St. Nicholas (Santa Claus).
- The careful hanging of stockings signifies children's expectations of receiving presents and candy.
Children's Dreams
- Children are snug in their beds, dreaming of "sugar plums," representing sweet treats they hope for.
- The imagery of dancing visions suggests happiness and excitement during their sleep.
Parents Preparing for Sleep
- The mother wears a 'kerchief, a cloth for warmth at night; the father wears a cap.
- The phrase "settled our brains" indicates they are preparing for a long sleep during winter.
Sudden Clatter
- A loud clatter from outside prompts the father to quickly leave his bed to investigate.
- Clattering refers to a series of loud, small noises reminiscent of dropping utensils.
Quick Reaction to Noise
- The father rushes to the window, described as moving quickly like a "flash."
- He tears open the shutters and throws up the sash (lower part of the window) to see outside.
Moonlit Snow
- The moonlight on freshly fallen snow creates a brightness comparable to noon.
- The imagery evokes a serene and magical atmosphere.
Sightings of the Sleigh
- The father sees a tiny sleigh being pulled by eight miniature reindeer.
- Sleighs, unlike carriages, have metal runners for gliding over snow.
Driver Revealed
- The lively and quick movement of the driver indicates it is St. Nick, another name for Santa Claus.
- St. Nick embodies the spirit of Christmas with his energetic demeanor.
Fast Arrival
- The description of the reindeer as coursers (fast horses) emphasizes their speed.
- The idea of whistling and calling them by name adds a sense of urgency and excitement to the scene.
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Description
'Twas the Night Before Christmas' is a beloved Christmas poem written by Clement Clarke Moore in the 1800s. This quiz explores key phrases and their meanings within the poem, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this holiday classic.
