In most countries in Europe, the name for Easter is derived from the Jewish festival of Passover.
"So in Greek the feast is called Pascha, in Italian Pasqua, in Danish it is Paaske, and in French it is Paques," Professor Cusack said.
But in English-speaking countries, and in Germany, Easter takes its name from a pagan goddess from Anglo-Saxon England who was described in a book by the eighth-century English monk Bede.
"Eostre was a goddess of spring or renewal and that's why her feast is attached to the vernal equinox," Professor Cusack said. So sure. Happy Easter. Or whatever trips your trigger. Or floats your boat. Have a nice day.
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