A Pretzel Is A Little Reward
Who thought of tying dough into a knot?
Interesting Facts in Easy English
Pre-Listening Vocabulary
- legend: a story from long ago that may or may not be true
- monk: a religious leader
- concentrate: to focus on a task
- bribe: to offer a reward in exchange for an action
- leftover: not used or needed
- tie the knot: to get married
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A Pretzel Is A Little Reward
Comprehension Questions
- What is the origin of the word “pretzel”?
- According to the legends, what two shapes might a pretzel represent?
- What does the expression “to tie the knot” have to do with pretzels?
Discussion Questions: Do you think it is wise to reward or bribe children with food? Why or why not?
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A Pretzel Is A Little Reward
The legend of the pretzel dates back to about 1,400 years ago. There was once an Italian monk who was frustrated with his students. He wanted the children to memorize Bible verses and prayers, but they were having trouble concentrating. The monk decided to bribe the young students with snacks. He used leftover bread dough and twisted it into shapes that looked like arms crossed in prayer. The monk baked the snacks and gave them to his students if they worked hard. The snacks were called “pretiola”, meaning little reward in Latin. Other accounts suggest that the shape of the pretzel was meant to look like a knot. The English expression “to tie the knot” may be related to pretzels. The newlywed tradition of breaking a pretzel in half and eating it for good luck began in Switzerland in the 1600s.
- The word “pretzel” comes from the Latin word “pretiola,” meaning little reward.
- According to one legend, the shape of a pretzel represents a child’s arms folded in prayer. It may also represent a marriage knot.
- The expression “to tie the knot” may originate from the Swiss tradition of breaking a pretzel for good luck at a marriage ceremony.
