El caganer

The Caganer figurine is one of the more peculiar aspects of Catalan
culture. The Caganer is a traditional part of the nativity scene, el
pessebre, during Christmas. In contrast with the nativity scene common
in America, the Catalan nativity scene depicts a whole city, and the
Caganer can usually be found hidden in the corner. Traditionally, the
Caganer is a depiction of a shepard defecating. Its popularity in pop
culture and amongst youth has expanded the selection of figurines to a
wide choice of various popular figures in politics and entertainment,
and new figurines continue to pop up every year. The explanation
behind why the Caganer exists is unclear, with varied opinions as to
its purpose. It is commonly thought of as nothing more than a simple
tradition and can be seen as a show of Catalan humor. Others regard it
in a more symbolic sense such as representing fertilization or
equality. Regardless, the Caganer has held its place as a rooted part
of local tradition in Catalonia, and any attempts to do away with it
by those who see it from a more offensive perspective have always been
met with opposition by those who consider it an important part of Catalan culture.

KENNETH PETERSON-DEVINNY