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 The
Story of the Easter Bunny
We
all know about the Easter bunny but have you ever
wondered how that all came about?
The truth is that the Easter bunny has a long and
interesting history, with its origin coming from
pre-Christian fertility lore.
Of course, the bunny (hare or rabbit) is known
for its fertility and easy breeding habits.
Therefore, it would make sense that the bunny
would become representative of Easter, which occurs in
the spring, a time of new life.
Originating
in Germany, the Easter bunny was first found in 16th
century writings. Then,
the first edible Easter bunnies also came from Germany
in the late 19th century.
Although today chocolate is the favorite bunny,
they were first made from sugar and pastry, still a
delicious treat. Remember,
Easter bunnies are also made from marshmallow, carob,
rice cereal treats, and more.
Children
in Germany would make nests in the yard, made from grass
with the belief that the bunnies would come and fill
these nests while they slept with bright colored and
decorated eggs. Then,
after German settlers came to the Pennsylvania Dutch
country during the 1700s, they brought with them many of
their wonderful foods and customs to include the edible
Easter bunny. With
the edible bunny becoming a huge hit, the people of
America started making their own springtime bunnies,
experimenting with different ingredients.
Remember,
in Pagan times, the Easter bunny was considered a sacred
companion to Eostre, the goddess of spring.
This story of this particular animal was often
told to children well before the birth of Christ.
In addition to the bunny, children would receive
springtime gifts, which were commonly elaborately
colored eggs, again being the symbol of new life.
Today,
the Easter bunny and eggs are popular customs enjoyed by
children in the United States.
Parents will take chocolate or colored eggs,
hiding them in the yard.
From there, the children go on an Easter egg
hunt, trying to collect as many eggs as possible.
Although some disconnect between bunny and egg
has occurred, the bunny still has a place in this
holiday.
For
instance, some parents will go as far as buying their
children a live animal but of course, you want to
consider the age of the child and the amount of care
that goes into owning a rabbit.
For some parents, the bunny is seen in the form
of a chocolate or edible treat, which is placed in the
Easter basket. Then,
just as children go to the mall to sit on Santa Claus’
lap, you can now visit stores so your children can sit
on the lap of a human size Easter bunny.
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