Le Père Fouettard facts for kids
Le Père Fouettard (pronounced "pair foo-eh-TAR") is a character from French folklore. His name means "The Whipping Father" in French. He is often seen with Saint Nicholas during the Christmas season. While Saint Nicholas gives presents to children who have been good, Le Père Fouettard deals with those who have been naughty.
His Appearance and Role
Le Père Fouettard is known for his scary appearance. He wears a long, dark, and often dirty robe. He also has a beard that looks messy and unkempt. His main job is to remind children to be well-behaved. In some stories, he carries a whip or a bundle of sticks. This is meant to scare naughty children into being good.
Where He is Known
This character is mostly known in the eastern parts of France. He is also part of traditions in nearby regions. For example, in Alsace, a region in eastern France, Le Père Fouettard is sometimes seen as a scary figure. He is like a "bogeyman" character. This means he is used in stories to encourage children to behave.
Images for kids
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A statue of Père Fouettard
