Valentine’s Day: A Loveable History

Valentine's Day: A Loveable History

Ah, Valentine’s Day – a day filled with flowers, chocolates, and all things heart-shaped. But have you ever stopped to wonder how this day of love came to be? The origins of Valentine’s Day are a mix of romance, martyrdom, and a sprinkle of ancient Roman antics.

The Rebel Priest: Saint Valentine

Legend has it that Valentine’s Day traces back to a Roman priest named, you guessed it, Valentine. Back in the 3rd century AD, Emperor Claudius II had a brilliant plan: ban marriage. Why? Because he thought single men made better soldiers. But our dear Valentine, being the hopeless romantic he was, decided to defy the decree and continued to marry young couples in secret. Talk about a rebel with a heart of gold!

Love Behind Bars: Valentine’s Secret Admirer

Of course, as with many tales of defiance, Valentine’s secret matchmaking didn’t go unnoticed. He was eventually caught, imprisoned, and sentenced to death. But even behind bars, he didn’t lose his charm. Rumour has it that he fell for the jailer’s daughter and sent her a love note signed “from your Valentine.”

A Pagan Connection: Lupercalia

Now, if you’re thinking, “Hold up, isn’t Valentine’s Day just a Christianized version of the pagan festival Lupercalia?” Well, you’re not wrong. Lupercalia was an ancient Roman festival dedicated to fertility and celebrated in mid-February. It involved all sorts of quirky rituals, including sacrificing goats and dogs and then slapping women with the hides. Yeah, not exactly your typical Valentine’s Day tradition, but hey, different strokes for different folks, right?

From Sacrifices to Chocolates: The Evolution of Valentine’s Day

Fast forward a few centuries, and here we are, exchanging chocolates and love notes instead of sacrificial animal hides. It’s funny how things evolve.

When I think of Valentine’s Day Gil Elvgren’s pin-up girls immediately came to mind.

Celebrating Love: Modern Traditions

So, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your significant other, friends, or pet goldfish, take a moment to appreciate the quirky history behind this day of love. And who knows, maybe you’ll even start a new tradition – like sending goofy memes instead of love letters. After all, laughter is the best medicine, especially when mixed with a healthy dose of romance.

In sign language this signifies love. A painting with the message.

Love sign language acrylic on canvas - Valentine's Day
“Love” – 25x35cm

Whether you have someone to share this day with or have yourself to treat here’s a positive little reminder that you are special.

Free affirmation printable cards for you!

Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone!

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All Artwork © Mariaan Kotzé