• Weaving

  .......

  The week before the event, volunteers weave the ropes for the Straw Man's suit. Even when the weather is cold, and damp, as is often the case at the beginning of Spring, the atmosphere is gently "hot" - mulled wine, and other "warming" drinks awaiting the weary workers at the completion of their task!

   

• Dressing

  ...............................

  The consenting vicim "embraces" his role (or vice versa), and the tail is attached.

The final touch - it is a ferlity cult after all...

• Hunting .......

  • The Straw Man comes out of hiding, and the villagers, led by a brass band, set off on thei search through the streets.

......

The Straw Man is quickly captured. Accompanied by his (soon to be) widow, he is brought before the judge.

Justice is done. All the wrongs of the village go up in smoke with the Straw Man. Mézilles can face the new year with a clear conscience.