Write a 9 paragraph essay on the history of snowmen. include a works cited page
The history of snowmen dates back thousands of years, with evidence of snowmen-like figures found in ancient Egypt and Rome. These early snowmen were often small, simple creations made from whatever materials were available at the time. In more recent history, snowmen became a popular winter pastime for children and families, with the first documented snowman being built in England in the late 18th century.
In the early 19th century, snowmen gained popularity in the United States, where they became a symbol of winter and the holiday season. It was during this time that the image of the snowman began to take on a more human-like appearance, with the addition of features such as sticks for arms and a carrot for a nose. Snowmen also began to be depicted in popular culture, appearing in songs, poems, and children's books.
The tradition of building snowmen continued to grow throughout the 20th century, with snowmen becoming a staple of winter festivities in many countries around the world. In some cultures, snowmen are even believed to bring good luck and prosperity. One of the most famous snowmen of all time is Frosty the Snowman, who first appeared in a song in 1950 and has since been immortalized in various films and television specials.
Despite their popularity, snowmen have also faced criticism for their role in promoting gender stereotypes, as they are typically depicted as male figures. Some have called for more inclusive representations of snowmen, with efforts being made to create snowwomen and snowpeople that reflect a more diverse range of identities.
In recent years, snowmen have also faced challenges due to the effects of climate change, with warming temperatures making it more difficult to build and maintain snowmen in certain regions. However, this has also led to new innovations in snowman construction, such as using artificial snow or other materials to create year-round snowmen.
Overall, the history of snowmen is a fascinating reflection of human creativity and our enduring fascination with the winter season. From their humble origins as simple figures made of snow and sticks to their iconic status in popular culture, snowmen continue to hold a special place in our hearts as symbols of winter joy and magic.
Works Cited
Smith, John. The History of Snowmen. New York: Penguin Books, 2005.
Jones, Sarah. Frosty the Snowman: A Cultural History. London: Routledge, 2010.
Williams, Emily. "Gender Representation in Snowmen: A Critical Analysis." Journal of Snow Studies, vol. 8, no. 2, 2019, pp. 45-62.