What Child Is This?

Description

“What Child Is This?” is a timeless Christmas carol that has graced holiday celebrations for over a century. This beloved hymn, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and poignant lyrics, captures the essence of the nativity story. In this article, we will delve into the history and authors of “What Child Is This?” to explore its origins and the enduring impact it has had on Christmas traditions worldwide.

The History:

The history of “What Child Is This?” can be traced back to the mid-19th century. Its roots are closely associated with the English poem “Greensleeves,” which was composed during the Renaissance era. “Greensleeves” was a popular folk song with various lyrics set to its tune. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the poem was adapted to create “What Child Is This?” as we know it today.

The Authors:

1. The Lyrics: The lyrics of “What Child Is This?” were written by Englishman William Chatterton Dix. Born on June 14, 1837, in Bristol, England, Dix was a prolific hymn writer and businessman. He was a devout Christian, and his deep faith inspired much of his hymn-writing. Dix wrote the lyrics to “What Child Is This?” in 1865 when he was just 28 years old.
2. The Melody: The melody of “What Child Is This?” is derived from the traditional English folk song “Greensleeves,” which dates back to the 16th century. The composer of the original tune is unknown, as it was a popular melody passed down through generations. However, the merging of “Greensleeves” with Dix’s lyrics to create “What Child Is This?” is credited to Richard Storrs Willis, an American composer and music critic.
   • William Chatterton Dix: Dix was inspired to write “What Child Is This?” during a severe illness that left him bedridden. During this period of illness, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening. This spiritual transformation led him to write a series of hymns, including “What Child Is This?” The lyrics explore the nativity story, focusing on the question of who the child in the manger is and why He came into the world.
   • Richard Storrs Willis: Willis was born on February 10, 1819, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was a versatile musician, known not only for his compositions but also for his music criticism. He is credited with adapting the “Greensleeves” melody to fit Dix’s lyrics, thus creating the version of the carol that we are familiar with today. Willis’s contribution to the carol’s popularity cannot be overstated, as his arrangement helped make “What Child Is This?” accessible to a wider audience.

Legacy:

“What Child Is This?” quickly became a beloved Christmas carol following its composition. Its timeless lyrics and haunting melody have allowed it to endure through the decades, becoming a cherished part of Christmas celebrations worldwide. The carol has been recorded and performed by countless artists, from classical musicians to contemporary pop stars, ensuring its continued relevance and impact.

“What Child Is This?” is a testament to the power of music and faith to transcend time and generations. With its origins in a 19th-century English hymn and a centuries-old melody, it continues to touch the hearts of people during the Christmas season. The collaboration between William Chatterton Dix and Richard Storrs Willis created a masterpiece that captures the essence of the nativity story and the profound question it poses: “What child is this, who, laid to rest on Mary’s lap, is sleeping?”