Love Through the Ages

As a romance authoress, I spend my days crafting love stories. But there’s one love story that’s been unfolding for centuries — the fascinating history of Valentine’s Day.

Let me take you on a journey through time and across continents to explore how this celebration of love has evolved and touched hearts worldwide.

You might be surprised to learn that the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine!

But the most famous of these holy men was a third-century Roman priest who defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly performing marriages for young lovers. (Gotta love that Revolutionary spirit!)

The emperor had banned marriages, believing single men made better soldiers. Our courageous Valentine chose love over law — a decision that ultimately cost him his life but earned him a place in history.

Here’s something fascinating: Valentine’s Day might have roots in the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February.

But don’t get too excited — it wasn’t exactly the romantic celebration we know today. Think more “wild festival,” less “chocolate hearts”!

The transformation into our modern celebration began in the Middle Ages. And we can thank Geoffrey Chaucer for that. His poem linking Valentine’s Day to romantic love helped establish the tradition of courtly love that would evolve into today’s celebration.

One of the things I love about researching holidays is learning how different cultures have embraced and adapted them. And Valentine’s Day is one celebrated everywhere.

Let me share some of my favorite traditions from around the world:

Today, Valentine’s Day has become a global phenomenon, though it looks different depending on where you celebrate. Some focus on romantic love, others on friendship and family bonds.

I admit I’m not a big fan of this holiday — which might sound strange coming from a romance writer! But to me, it seems Valentine’s has become less about love and more about pressure, particularly on men to prove their devotion through elaborate gifts. What should be about couples coming together often ends up putting more men in the doghouse.

That’s why I find myself drawn to Japan’s approach. Their tradition of mutual gift-giving makes more sense to me. No stressful 5-star reservations made months in advance. No “make sure the gift isn't practical or related to the kitchen!” Just simple exchanges of chocolate. (And if you know me, stop shaking your head. Now’s not the time for me to delve into how much I don’t like chocolate!)

However, as a romance writer, I do appreciate how this holiday reminds us that love stories come in all shapes and sizes – just like the characters in our favorite books!

If I were to pick one thing that I love about Valentine’s Day, it would be this: It’s not just about romantic love anymore. It’s evolved into a celebration of all kinds of love — the love between friends, family members, and even self-love.

That’s something worth celebrating, don’t you think?

Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone, gathering with friends, or treating yourself to a good romance novel (might I suggest one of mine?), remember that love is worth celebrating in all its forms.

This Valentine’s Day, why not explore some global traditions? Try making Japanese chocolate, sending Danish snowdrops, or starting your own unique celebration of love.

How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? Share your traditions in the comments below!

Related Topics: romance history, cultural traditions, love stories, holiday origins, global celebrations