Roses are red, violets are blue.
Every 14 February, we shower our loved ones with gifts and affection - but why do we do what we do?
Let's delve into the origins of Valentine's Day, debunk some common misconceptions, and explore how this day of love has evolved over the centuries.
Spoiler alert: It’s not as romantic as you think! 👀
The Mysterious Saint Valentine
The history of Valentine's Day is as confusing as love itself. The day is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who was executed on February 14 in 269 AD. Pope Gelasius I declared this date as a holiday in 496 AD to honour him.
From Pagan Festivals to Romantic Celebrations
Before it became a celebration of love, mid-February was marked by ancient Roman festivals. One such festival, Lupercalia, was held from February 13 to 15 and was associated with fertility rites and matchmaking rituals. However, it was later abolished and replaced with Saint Valentine’s Day by Pope Gelasius I in the 5th century.
Chaucer and the Birds
The association between Valentine's Day and romantic love didn't solidify until the Middle Ages. Geoffrey Chaucer, the famed English poet, played a pivotal role in this transformation. In his poem "Parlement of Foules," he wrote about birds choosing their mates on St. Valentine's Day, linking the day to love and courtship.
Debunking Common Myths
Over time, several misconceptions about Valentine's Day have emerged:
· Myth: Valentine's Day was invented by greeting card companies. False. The holiday has roots that trace back centuries, long before the existence of greeting card companies.
· Myth: Valentine's Day is solely for romantic couples. ABSOLUTELY F-A-L-S-E. While it's a day to celebrate romantic love, it's also an opportunity to express affection for friends, family, and even oneself. Trust us, we know!
Modern-Day Celebrations
Today, Valentine's Day is celebrated worldwide with various customs. In addition to exchanging cards, flowers, chocolates, gifts, etc; some cultures have unique traditions. For instance, in Finland, 14 February is known as "Friend's Day," emphasizing the celebration of friendship.
Romeo and Juliet
No discussion of Valentine's Day would be complete without mentioning Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. This iconic tale of "star-crossed lovers" has become synonymous with romantic passion and the trials of love. Set in Verona, Italy; the narrative follows young Romeo and Juliet as they defy their feuding families in pursuit of their love, leading to a tragic yet tearful conclusion. Over the centuries, their story is what most people believe Valentine’s Day is about. It has been celebrated as the epitome of youthful romance, often evoked during Valentine's Day as a symbol of enduring love and the complexities that accompany it.
In conclusion, Valentine's Day has a rich and varied history, evolving from ancient rituals to the modern expressions of love we see today. Whether you're spoiling a partner, cherishing a friend, or indulging in self-love, understanding the origins of this day adds depth to the celebrations.
