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Traditional

"What Child Is This" is a traditional Christmas carol that is based on the melody of the English folk song "Greensleeves." The lyrics were written by William Chatterton Dix in 1865. The carol was first published in 1871 in a collection of hymns called "Christmas Carols, New and Old." The carol has a slow and melancholic melody that is typical of English folk songs. It is written in the key of E minor and has a 3/4 time signature. The carol has three verses, each of which asks a different question about the identity of the child born in Bethlehem. The first verse asks, "What child is this who, laid to rest, on Mary's lap is sleeping?" The second verse asks, "Why lies he in such mean estate, where ox and ass are feeding?" The third verse answers these questions by proclaiming that the child is the King of kings and Lord of lords. The carol has been arranged and performed by many artists over the years, including Johnny Mathis, Andrea Bocelli, and Josh Groban. It is often sung in churches and at Christmas concerts and is a beloved part of the Christmas tradition. Overall, "What Child Is This" is a beautiful and haunting Christmas carol that captures the wonder and mystery of the birth of Jesus Christ. Its timeless melody and powerful lyrics continue to inspire and move people around the world.

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